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MESSAGES

JOSEPH I

1998-2001

OF '

BOOK 13 | VOLUME 4

Executive Orders Part 1

President Joseph Ejercito Estrada, Thirteenth President of the Philippines
and Third President of the Fifth Republic.

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

JOSEPH EJERCITO-ESTRADA

1998-2001

BOOK 13 | VOLUME 4

Executive Orders Part 1

Messages of the President Book 13: Joseph Ejercito Estrada
Volume 4 Part 1

Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office

http://www.gov.ph

http://www.malacanang.gov.ph

http://www.pcdspo.gov.ph

ISBN 978-621-8032-46-0

All rights reserved. The content of this publication may be copied, adapted, and
redistributed, in whole in part, provided that the material is not used for commercial
purposes and that proper attribution be made. No written permission from the publisher
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from their original copyright owners.

Published exclusively by

The Presidential Communications Development
and Strategic Planning Office
Office of the President of the Philippines
3/F New Executive Building,

Malacanan Palace, San Miguel, Manila
Tel.: 736-0719, 736-0718
Fax no.: 736-6167
Website: http://www.pcdspo.gov.ph

Book design by the Presidential Communications
Development and Strategic Planning Office

Published in the Philippines.

The National Library of the Philippines CIP Data
Recommended entry:

Philippines. President (Estrada: 1998-2001)

Messages of the President: Joseph Ejercito Estrada, 1998-2001,
Book 13, Volume 4, Executive Orders Part 1 / Presidential Communication
Development and Strategic Planning Office. - Manila: Presidential
Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office, 2016.
pages; cm

ISBN 978-621-8032-46-0

Contents: vol. 1. Official Week and Month in Review - vol. 2.
Appointments and Designations - vol. 3. Historical Documents and
Papers - vol. 4. Executive Orders - vol. 5. Administrative Orders - vol. 6.
Proclamations - vol. 7. Other Issuances - vol. 8. Cabinet Minutes.

1. Estrada, Joseph Ejercito, President - Philippines - 1998-2001.
2. Presidents - Messages - Philippines. 3. Philippines - Politics and
government - 1998-2001. I. Title.

959.9059092

DS686.6.E88 2016

P620160212

The Messages of the President Book 13: Joseph Ejercito Estrada Volume 4 Part 1 was compiled
and published by the Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office

in May 2016 in Manila, Philippines.

THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES

BENIGNO S. AQUINO III

President of the Philippines

PAQUITO N. OCHOA ,JR.

Executive Secretary

JOSE RENE D. ALMENDRAS

Cabinet Secretary

MARIANO DIMAANDAL

Director IV, Malacanang Records Office

PRESIDENTIAL COMMUNICATIONS
DEVELOPMENT AND STRATEGIC PLANNING OFFICE

MANUEL L. QUEZON III

Undersecretary of Presidential Communications
Development and Strategic Planning

JAN MIKAEL dL. CO

Assistant Secretary

Senior Presidential Speechwriter and Head of Correspondence Office

JUAN POCHOLO MARTIN B. GOITIA

Assistant Secretary
Managing Editor, Official Gazette

GINO ALPHONSUS A. BAYOT

Director V

Head, Research Division

EDGAR RYAN S. FAUSTINO

Head, Presidential Museum and Library

JONATHAN F. CUEVAS

MA. ROMMIN M. DIAZ

Director III

Head Executive Assistant

Director IV
Technical Division

YOLANDO B. JAMENDANG JR.

TERESITA L. MENDIOLA

Chief Administrative Officer

Director II

Head, Message Crafting Division

KATHERINE AIRA M. ESPINO

MARK PHILIPPE P. LEGASPI

KRISTINA D. JAVIER

Media Monitoring

Institutional Memory
Official Gazette

Heritage

SASHA B. MARTINEZ

Social Media

RAYMOND ANDREW MAYMAY

Associate Editor
Official Gazette

ATTY. SARAH Q. SISON

Legal

CHRISTIAN F. SOQUENO

Citizen Engagement
Official Gazette

Messages of the President Book 13: Joseph Ejercito Estrada

Volume 4 Part 1

PUBLICATIONS DIVISION

Presidential Communications Development
and Strategic Planning Office

MANUEL L. QUEZON III

Editor in Chief

JUAN POCHOLO MARTIN B. GOITIA

Managing Editor

JONATHAN F. CUEVAS

Technical Director

KATHERINE AIRA M. ESPINO

Project Manager 2014-2016

MARY CLAIRE LORRAINE CAPUL

Project Manager 2016

MARK PHILIPPE P. LEGASPI

Head, Heritage Division

CAMILLE ROSE B. DUFOURT

Project Coordinator

GAMIL BANCOLITA
SCHURLYNS BIANG
MARY CLAIRE LORRAINE CAPUL
JERICO CATALLA
ANGELA KAYE CRESCINI
KRIS RICHARD GERONIMO
JUSTIN HAROLD HINGCO
PAOLA MELGAZO
ALFREDO NAVARRO III
Institutional Memory

KRIZIA ALMENARIO
NATHAN ANDRADA
JAMILLE DOMINGO
MA. KATRINA FERNANDO
GRACE GUIANG
MARIA ANNA GUMAPAC
MARIA THERESA LAMPA
JOHN RIMHER MANUBAY
FRANCES MARA MENDOZA
KARLO OROPESA
PATRICIA CARLA RAYMUNDO
Institutional Memory 2012-2015

JOSELITO ARCINAS
CHEREY ANN MAE BIGAY
COLINE ESTHER CARDENO
ROBERTO DANIEL DEVELA
FRANCIS KRISTOFFER PASSION
Researchers

LARISSA ANGELA SALAZAR
SARAH JESSICA WONG
Editors

JOI MARIE ANGELICA
INDIAS

Graphic Designer

MA. KRISTINA ABELLA
MA. ROMMIN DIAZ
LANCIE MITZI ONG
ALEXANDRIA SUPLIDO
ARMIL ORDIALES
JESSIE CRUZ

MICHAEL LOUIS BAUTISTA
Support Staff

OFFICIAL GAZETTE

ESTRADA | Volume 4

INTRODUCTION

As the President’s chief message-crafting body, the Presidential Communications Development
and Strategic Planning Office (PCDSPO), is mandated to provide strategic communication leadership
and support to the Executive Branch, its composite agencies, and instrumentalities of government.

The PCDSPO is also mandated to act as custodian of the institutional memory of the Office of
the President. One of our projects is the continuation of the series of books called the Messages of the
President, started in 1936 by Jorge B. Vargas, Executive Secretary to President Manuel L. Quezon.
The series was a wide collection of executive issuances, speeches, messages, and other official papers
of the President. The volumes were intended to serve as the definitive compilation of presidential
documents. The series was continued until the Quirino administration, although the series for the
Presidential administrations of Presidents Quezon, Roxas, and Quirino were never completed.

In 2010, President Benigno S. Aquino III ordered the revival of the series and the constitution of a
complete set, covering all 15 presidential administrations. With pride, we continue what Vargas began.

We would like to extend our gratitude to our partners for without whose gracious cooperation,
this project would have not been possible.

A note on organization: Each presidential administration’s messages are in book form, compiled
and subdivided into volumes. The books are as follows:

Book 1: Emilio Aguinaldo
Book 2: Jose P. Laurel
Book 3: Manuel L. Quezon
Book 4: Sergio Osmena
Book 5: Manuel Roxas
Book 6: Elpidio Quirino
Book 7: Ramon Magsaysay
Book 8: Carlos P. Garcia
Book 9: Diosdado Macapagal
Book 10: Ferdinand E. Marcos
Book 11: Corazon C. Aquino
Book 12: Fidel V. Ramos
Book 13: Joseph Ejercito Estrada
Book 14: Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo
Book 15: Benigno S. Aquino III

Each book is subdivided into the following volumes:

Volume 1: Official Weeks/Months in Review
Volume 2: Appointments and Designations
Volume 3: Historical Papers and Documents
Volume 4: Executive Orders
Volume 5: Administrative Orders
Volume 6: Proclamations

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

Volume 7: Other issuances
Volume 8: Cabinet minutes

We hope that this collection will be a useful and vital reference for generations to come.

OFFICIAL GAZETTE

ESTRADA | Volume 4

PREFACE

On July 30, 2010, President Benigno S. Aquino III issued Executive Order No. 4, which effectively
renamed what was previously called the Malacanang Museum into the Presidential Museum and
Library (PML) and placed it under the supervision and control of the Presidential Communications
Development and Strategic Planning Office (PCDSPO). The PML is responsible for preserving,
managing, and promoting the history and heritage of the Philippine presidency. It is the principal
historical and artistic repository in support of the institution of the presidency, for the benefit of
the Republic and the Lilipino people. In partnership with the PCDSPO, which has pioneered the
publication of the Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines as a web archive and information
website, the PML has taken this mandate and placed it on the cutting edge of the information age.

Much has been done over the past years, under the administration of President Aquino III, to
digitize executive issuances, speeches, letters, and other presidential papers; and publish them online.
The project is not limited to a single administration, nor does it discriminate. This collection, published
as databases, as well as print and e-publications, includes documents from the presidency of Emilio
Aguinaldo to the current Aquino administration. This represents the government’s allegiance to
transparency, continuity, and the fostering of an informed citizenry, as well as an effort, in earnest, to
preserve the institutional memory of the Presidency. All this was done not just for the posterity, but for
the current generation and the ongoing task of nation building.

The PML are proud partners of the Official Gazette and PCDSPO team, to whom we made the
collections available. We sincerely hope that this series will serve as a vital reference to educators,
students, journalists, lawyers, historians, and the public at large.

OFFICIAL GAZETTE

ESTRADA | Volume 4

FOREWORD

This is the fourth volume of President Joseph Ejercito Estrada’s official papers, which constitutes
the 13th book of the Messages of the President series. The series was started in 1936 by Executive
Secretary Jorge B. Vargas, during the first year in office of Manuel L. Quezon, the first President of the
Commonwealth of the Philippines. This volume collects President Estrada’s Executive Orders, which
provide for rules of a general or permanent character in implementation or execution of constitutional
or statutory powers.

OFFICIAL GAZETTE

ESTRADA | Volume 4

BOOK 13

PRESIDENT JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

President Joseph Ejercito Estrada was the thirteenth President of the Philippines and was the third
President of the fifth Republic. He assumed office on June 30, 1998 due to allegations of corruption
that resulted to impeachment trial, the administration of President Joseph Ejercito Estrada was
peacefully overthrown by People Power II. He was President until January 20, 2001.

The Executive Issuances of President Joseph Ejercito Estrada began with Administrative Order
No. 1 and Memorandum Order No. 1, signed on June 30, 1998 and ended with Memorandum Order
No. 135 which was signed on January 16, 2001.

President Joseph Ejercito Estrada’s documents were gathered from its official sources such as the
Official Gazette of the Philippines; Malacanang Records Office’s Book of Executive Issuances; SONA
Technical Report; and from the website archive.org.

The American Psychological Association (APA) style was used for the citation. The titles that have
been provided by the researchers are enclosed in square brackets, considering that the exact wordings
and its order were not verbatim from the document being described. Book titles are italicized while
the speech titles are not. If in any case that the book title is the same as the title of the speech, it is
transcribed in italics because it is the book title.

CONTENTS

Introduction

Preface

Foreword

Research Notes

Executive Orders

• Executive Order No. 1

• Executive Order No. 2

• Executive Order No. 3

• Executive Order No. 4

• Executive Order No. 5

• Executive Order No. 6

• Executive Order No. 7

• Executive Order No. 8

• Executive Order No. 9

• Executive Order No. 10

• Executive Order No 1 1

• Executive Order No. 12

• Executive Order No. 13

• Executive Order No. 14

• Executive Order No. 15

• Executive Order No. 16

• Executive Order No. 17

• Executive Order No. 18

• Executive Order No. 19

• Executive Order No. 20

• Executive Order No. 21

• Executive Order No. 22

• Executive Order No. 23

• Executive Order No. 24

• Executive Order No. 25

• Executive Order No. 26

• Executive Order No. 27

• Executive Order No. 28

• Executive Order No. 29

• Executive Order No. 30

• Executive Order No. 31

• Executive Order No. 32

• Executive Order No. 33

• Executive Order No. 34

100

• Executive Order No. 35

103

• Executive Order No. 36

105

• Executive Order No. 37

107

• Executive Order No. 38

109

• Executive Order No. 39

111

• Executive Order No. 39-A

114

• Executive Order No. 40

117

• Executive Order No. 41

118

• Executive Order No. 42

123

• Executive Order No. 43

126

• Executive Order No. 44

128

• Executive Order No. 45

130

• Executive Order No. 46

134

• Executive Order No. 47

137

• Executive Order No. 48

139

• Executive Order No. 49

142

• Executive Order No. 50

146

• Executive Order No. 51

147

• Executive Order No. 52

149

• Executive Order No. 53

153

• Executive Order No. 54

155

• Executive Order No. 55

157

• Executive Order No. 56

159

• Executive Order No. 57

161

• Executive Order No. 58

164

• Executive Order No. 59

167

• Executive Order No. 60

172

• Executive Order No. 61

174

• Executive Order No. 62

178

• Executive Order No. 63

182

• Executive Order No. 64

184

• Executive Order No. 65

186

• Executive Order No. 66

188

• Executive Order No. 67

189

• Executive Order No. 68

191

• Executive Order No. 69

193

• Executive Order No. 70

195

• Executive Order No. 71

197

• Executive Order No. 72

199

• Executive Order No. 73

202

• Executive Order No. 74

204

• Executive Order No. 75

207

• Executive Order No. 76

209

• Executive Order No. 77

212

• Executive Order No. 78

214

• Executive Order No. 79

216

• Executive Order No. 80

219

• Executive Order No. 81

221

• Executive Order No. 82

223

• Executive Order No. 83

225

• Executive Order No. 84

228

• Executive Order No. 85

230

• Executive Order No. 86

232

• Executive Order No. 87

237

• Executive Order No. 88

239

• Executive Order No. 89

240

• Executive Order No. 90

241

• Executive Order No. 91

243

• Executive Order No. 92

245

• Executive Order No. 93

249

• Executive Order No. 94

251

• Executive Order No. 95

254

• Executive Order No. 96

257

• Executive Order No. 97

259

• Executive Order No. 98

261

• Executive Order No. 99

263

• Executive Order No. 100

266

• Executive Order No. 101

268

• Executive Order No. 102

270

• Executive Order No. 103

274

• Executive Order No. 104

276

• Executive Order No. 105

277

• Executive Order No. 106

279

• Executive Order No. 107

280

• Executive Order No. 108

282

• Executive Order No. 109

284

• Executive Order No. 110

286

• Executive Order No. Ill

288

• Executive Order No. 112

291

• Executive Order No. 113

294

• Executive Order No. 114

297

• Executive Order No. 115

304

• Executive Order No. 116

308

• Executive Order No. 117

310

• Executive Order No. 118

312

• Executive Order No. 119

315

• Executive Order No. 120

317

• Executive Order No. 121

319

• Executive Order No. 122

321

• Executive Order No. 123

324

• Executive Order No. 124

326

• Executive Order No. 125

328

• Executive Order No. 126

332

• Executive Order No. 127

334

• Executive Order No.

128

338

• Executive Order No.

129

341

• Executive Order No.

130

344

• Executive Order No.

131

346

• Executive Order No.

132

348

• Executive Order No.

133

353

• Executive Order No.

134

355

• Executive Order No.

135

357

• Executive Order No.

136

359

• Executive Order No.

137

361

• Executive Order No.

138

363

• Executive Order No.

139

367

• Executive Order No.

140

369

• Executive Order No.

141

371

• Executive Order No.

142

373

• Executive Order No.

143

375

• Executive Order No.

144

377

• Executive Order No.

145

380

• Executive Order No.

146

383

• Executive Order No.

147

385

• Executive Order No.

148

387

• Executive Order No.

149

389

• Executive Order No.

150

391

• Executive Order No.

151

393

• Executive Order No.

152

397

• Executive Order No.

153

401

• Executive Order No.

154

404

• Executive Order No.

155

406

• Executive Order No.

156

409

• Executive Order No.

157

412

• Executive Order No.

158

413

• Executive Order No.

159

415

• Executive Order No.

160

418

• Executive Order No.

161

420

• Executive Order No.

162

422

• Executive Order No.

163

425

• Executive Order No.

164

427

• Executive Order No.

165

429

• Executive Order No.

166

433

• Executive Order No.

167

435

• Executive Order No.

168

437

President Joseph Ejercito Estrada with Secretary Alexander Aguirre
and Executive Secretary Ronnie Zamora.

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

JOSEPH EJERCITO-ESTRADA

1998-2001

BOOK 13 | VOLUME 4

Executive Orders Part 1

President Joseph Ejercito Estrada, Press Secretary Rod Reyes and Foreign Affairs
Secretary Domingo Siazon, Jr. share a light moment with newspaper reporters
from different dailies assigned to cover the goings-on at the Malacanan Palace.

EXECUTIVE ORDERS

An Executive Order provides for rules of a general or permanent character in implementation
or execution of constitutional or statutory powers. The Executive Orders of President Joseph Ejercito
Estrada began on August 7, 1998 with Executive Order No. 1 and ended on January 10, 2001 with
Executive Order No. 338.

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 1

RESCINDING THE PROVISO ON THE “OVER AND ABOVE” ALLOWANCE OF PUBLIC
SCHOOL TEACHERS AND OTHER RELATED TEACHING PERSONNEL
UNDER SECTION 6 OF EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 389

WHEREAS, the “over and above” allowance of public school teachers and other related teaching
personnel was treated in a manner different from the transition allowance of other government
personnel;

WHEREAS, the varied treatment resulted in a minimum salary differential for public school
teachers and other related teaching personnel with “over and above” allowance in the final phase of the
implementation of the salary increase authorized by Joint Senate-House of Representatives Resolution
No. 1, series of 1994, for all government civilian and uniformed personnel.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby rescind the proviso on the “over
and above” allowance of public school teachers and related teaching personnel under Section 6 of
Executive Order No. 389. Henceforth, said Section shall read as follows:

“SECTION 6. TRANSITION ALLOWANCE. The transition allowance resulting from
the implementation of RA 6758 and other personnel and compensation actions thereafter,
including the “over and above” allowance of public school teachers and related personnel
shall be considered as advance payment of the salary increases authorized herein.”

This Order shall take effect January 1, 1999.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 7th day of August, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

OFFICIAL GAZETTE

ESTRADA | Volume 4

OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
OF THE PHILIPPINES

malacaNang

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 02

TRANSFERRING THE NATIONAL FOOD AUTHORITY FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF
AGRICULTURE TO THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT

WHEREAS, the new government is committed to pursue a policy of agricultural development so
as to provide adequate and continuous food supply to the nation;

WHEREAS, basic food sufficiency will be assured only if the grains industry, inclusive of the
procurement, storage and marketing of rice, corn and other grains, receives the support mechanism
and attention it deserves;

WHEREAS, the National Food Authority (NFA), the agency particularly tasked to assure the
adequacy of food supply, must be strengthened to enhance its efficiency in the performance of its
primary task;

WHEREAS, there is therefore an immediate need to transfer the NFA from the Department of
Agriculture to the Office of the President to enable the NFA to pursue its mandate more effectively and
expeditiously;

WHEREAS, Section 31, Chapter 10, Title III, Book III of Executive No. 292, otherwise known
as the Administrative Code of 1987, provides continuing authority to the President to reorganize the
administrative structure of the Office of the President;

NOW THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the power vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Dispositive Action . The NFA is hereby transferred from the Department of
Agriculture to the Office of the President.

SEC. 2. Scope of Transfer . The transfer shall be limited to policy and program coordination/
integration and administrative supervision.

SEC. 3. Mode of Transfer . The Administrator of the NFA shall immediately prepare and, with
the approval of the President, shall implement short- and long-term plans and programs on grains
procurement, storage and marketing consistent with the over-all policy of agricultural development.

SEC. 4. Repealing Clause . All executive orders, rules and regulations, and other issuances or parts
thereof that shall be inconsistent with the provisions of this Executive Order are hereby either revoked
or modified accordingly.

SEC. 5. Effectivitv . This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

DONE in the City of Manila, this 13th day of JULY, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). / Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

OFFICIAL GAZETTE

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 3

REVERTING THE BOARD OF LIQUIDATORS FROM THE ASSET PRIVATIZATION TRUST
TO THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT AS AN ATTACHED AGENCY

WHEREAS, the Asset Privatization Trust is mandated to enhance the transferred non-performing
assets of the government financial institutions and certain government-owned or controlled
corporations which have been found unnecessary or inappropriate for the government sector to
maintain, but without in any way impending the speedy disposition of the same to generate maximum
cash recovery for the National Government;

WHEREAS, further requiring the Asset Privatization Trust to handle the winding-up of the affairs
of abolished government corporations and entities which were placed under the jurisdiction of the
Board of Liquidators affects the efficient operations of the former in generating substantial cash returns
to the National Government within the shortest possible time;

WHEREAS, maintaining the existence of the Board of Liquidators as an attached agency of the
Office of the President will surely complement the thrust of the Asset Privatization Trust;

WHEREAS, Section 31, Chapter 10, Title III, Book III of Executive Order No. 292, otherwise
known as the Administrative Code of 1987, provides continuing authority to the President to
reorganize the administrative structure of the Office of the President.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

Section 1. The Board of Liquidators is hereby reverted from the Asset Privatization Trust to the
Office of the President to its former status as an attached agency.

Sec. 2. The Board of Liquidators shall continue performing its former functions and
responsibilities.

Sec. 3. The former composition of its Board of Directors is hereby maintained which is composed
of the Executive Secretary or his designated representative, as Chairman, and two (2) Members who
shall be appointed by the President.

Sec. 4. This Executive Order repeals Executive Order No. 149 dated December 28, 1993,
Executive Order No. 345 dated June 14, 1996 and Memorandum Order No. 401 dated October 10,
1996. All laws, decrees, executive orders, rules and regulations, or parts thereof, inconsistent with the
provisions of this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

Sec. 5. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

DONE in the City of Manila, this 15th day of July, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). / Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

OFFICIAL GAZETTE

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 4

AMENDING SECTIONS 3, 4 AND 5 OF EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 490 OTHERWISE KNOWN
AS “ESTABLISHING THE PRINCIPAL OFFICE IN MANILA OF THE MANILA ECONOMIC
AND CULTURAL OFFICE AND TRANSFERRING THE SUPERVISION OVER ITS OPERATIONS
AND ACTIVITIES TO THE DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS.”

WHEREAS, on January 16, 1984, the MECO (formerly ASECTAI), including its offices in
Taiwan, was placed under the Office of the President pursuant to Executive Order No. 931;

WHEREAS, on June 26, 1998, supervision over the principal office in Manila of the MECO and
its branch offices in Taiwan was transferred from the Office of the President to the Department of
Foreign Affairs pursuant to Executive Order No. 490;

WHEREAS, owing to the government’s commitment to a One-China policy, the responsibilities
entrusted to MECO of fostering people-to-people relations and facilitating unofficial contacts between
the Philippines and Taiwan are too important and too sensitive duties that supervision and control
over the principal office in Manila and its branch offices in Taiwan should remain under the Office of
the President.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by the Constitution, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Sections 3, 4 and 5 of Executive Order No. 490 otherwise known as “Establishing
the Principal Office in Manila of the Manila Economic and Cultural Office and Transferring the
Supervision Over the Operations and Activities to the Department of Foreign Affairs,” are hereby
amended to read as follows:

“SECTION 3.”

“6. The issuance of visas, passports and authentication of documents as
enumerated in subsections I , 2 and 3 shall he consistent with the One-China
Policy of the Philippine Government. To ensure its effective implementation,
personnel of the Department of Foreign Affairs who are on official leave can be
assigned to the MECO .”

“SECTION 4. Operational supervision and control . Supervision and control
over the principal office in Manila of the MECO and its branch offices in Taiwan
is hereby placed under the Office of the President.” The MECO shall report
directly to the Office of the Executive Secretary which shall exercise direct control
and supervision over the MECO. To ensure effective control and coordination for
and with the Office of the President, the Senior Deputy Executive Secretary shall
sit in the MECO Board as Director and shall exercise direct supervision over the
MECO for the Office of the President .”

“SECTION 5. Headquarters site . To maintain its private character and
unofficial status, the principal office in Manila of the MECO shall be located
outside the premises of any government offices .”

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

SECTION 2. All laws, orders, issuances, rules and regulations or parts thereof inconsistent with
this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

SECTION 3. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

Done in the City of Manila, this 17th day of July, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred and
ninety-eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

Pangulo ng Republika ng Pilipinas

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

OFFICIAL GAZETTE

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 5

STRENGTHENING THE NATIONAL STATISTICS OFFICE

WHEREAS, the National Statistics Office (NSO) has been mandated to generate general purpose
statistics and implement the Civil Registry Law;

WHEREAS, the growing demand for quality statistical products and services from the National
Government, local government units, non-government organizations, academe and domestic and
global businesses for planning, policy formulation and day-to-day decision-making has expanded the
responsibilities of NSO as reflected in the additional functions vested in the agency under various laws;

WHEREAS, the present organizational set-up of NSO has to be strengthened to enable the agency
to efficiently and effectively perform its mandated functions;

WHEREAS, the intended strengthening plan for the NSO should be achieved through the
decentralization of statistics generation activities, transformation of the central office units more into
developmental planning and evaluation units, and increased application of information technology
to NSO operations that will improve its ability to meet the rising demand for timely and relevant
statistical information;

WHEREAS, under Section 20, Chapter 7, Title I, Book III of Executive Order No. 292
(Administrative Code of 1987), the President of the Philippines is empowered to exercise such powers
and functions vested in him which are provided for under the laws;

WHEREAS, under Section 78 of the General Provisions of Republic Act No. 8522 (FY 1998
General Appropriations Act), the President may direct changes in the organization and key positions in
any department, bureau or agency;

WHEREAS, Section 80 of the General Provisions of RA 8522 directs heads of departments,
bureaus and agencies to scale down, phase out or abolish activities no longer essential in the delivery
of public services, and provides that savings generated from the abolition, phase-out or scaling down
of unnecessary activities may be used by the departments, bureaus and agencies concerned for the
augmentation of their respective programs, projects and activities;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

Section 1. Strengthening of the National and Statistics Office. The NSO shall be strengthened
to enhance its capability to perform its mandate as the major statistical agency for generating general
purpose statistics and as implementor of the Civil Registry Law through the following shifts in the
organization and operations of the agency:

1.1 Delegation of more substantive and administrative functions to the field offices, thus,
transforming them from mere data collection arms to statistics-producing and civil
registration servicing units;

1.2 Refocusing the functions of the central office units towards developmental planning, design
and analysis of designated statistical activities, as well as other surveys and statistical studies
requested by government agencies and international organizations; and

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1.3 Greater use of information technology to facilitate data processing and analysis and promote
easy access to statistical information by interested government, private and international
organizations, and the general public.

Section 2. Modification of the Organization Structure and Staffing Pattern. The NSO

Administrator shall, within thirty (30) days from the effectivity of this Order, submit to the Department
of Budget and Management for approval the modifications in the organization structure and staffing
pattern of the agency that are necessary to implement the provisions under Section 1 hereof, including
the creation of key positions and/or upgrading of units, if found necessary.

Section 3. Redeployment of Personnel. As necessary, the existing personnel of the NSO shall be
redeployed in accordance with the requirements of the revised organization structure and staffing
pattern and civil service rules and regulations. Such redeployment shall not result in diminution in rank
and compensation of personnel.

Section 4. Funding. The financial resources required to implement the revised staffing pattern
shall be taken from funds available in the NSO, provided that the necessary staffing modifications shall
not entail additional funds for Personal Services.

Section 5. Effectivity. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

Done in the City of Manila, this 29 th day of JULY, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

OFFICIAL GAZETTE

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 6

ESTABLISHING THE AKLAN PROVINCIAL TOURISM SPECIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT

TASK FORCE

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the government to promote a balanced development of each region
of the country and to harness the vast potential of the countryside.

WHEREAS, there is a need for an effective mechanism to plan, conceptualize, draft, coordinate
and manage the implementation of the Aklan Province Tourism Plan, within the framework of the
government’s decentralization and regionalization policy.

NOW THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. To ensure that an effective mechanism and linkage is instituted for the planning,
conceptualization, drafting and implementation of the Aklan Provincial Tourism Master Plan (APTMP),
there is hereby created under the Office of the President, a Task Force to be called the Aklan Provincial
Tourism Special Development Project Task Force which shall be responsible for the overall coordination
and supervision of the implementation of the APTMP. It shall be composed of the following:

Governor of the Province of Aklan

DENR Undersecretary for Environment and Programme Development -

DPWH Undersecretary for Visayas and Mindanao Operations

General Manager of the Philippine Tourism Authority

General Manager of the Philippine Ports Authority

Head of the Air Transportation Office

President of the Municipal Mayors’ League

Two (2) representatives of the private sector

Chairman

Vice Chairman

Member

Members

The Secretaries of the member-Departments shall designate their Undersecretary and/or Assistant
Secretary who shall represent the Department as regular members of the Task Force.

The Philippine Tourism Authority shall provide secretariat services to the Task Force pending the
organization of the Project Management Office.

SEC. 2. The Task Force shall be an advisory body to the President and shall exercise the following
functions and responsibilities:

a. Plan, conceptualize and draft the Aklan Province Tourism Master Plan in context of ensuring
the sustainable development of the Province of Aklan and the Island of Boracay;

b. Articulate the development goals, objectives, programs and projects of the Aklan Province
Tourism Master Plan;

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

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c. Cause the update and refinement of the Boracay Tourism Master Plan, within the context
of the Aklan Province Tourism Master Plan, the Regional Development Plan and the Local
Development Plans of the local government units;

d. Cause the conduct of feasibility study, evaluation, and financing of the project components of
the APTMP;

e. Cause the inclusion in their Department’s annual appropriations, the programs and projects
and projects identified by the Task Force;

f. Provide overall direction, coordination, and supervision in the planning and implementation
of the APTMP;

g. Enlist the support and assistance from government and non-government institutions in
planning and implementing the APTMP;

h. Enter into contracts as may be necessary in the implementation of the APTMP, subject to
existing laws, rules and regulations;

i. Organize, under the Office of the President, a Project Management Office, define its
organizational set-up, establish its staffing pattern and appoint its Project Director and staff,
subject to approval of the Department of Budget and Management.

j. Formulate implementing rules and regulations pertaining to the internal operations of the
Project Management Office; and

k. Submit to the President quarterly progress reports on the Projects and such other reports as
may be required.

SEC. 3. The Task Force may call upon any government agency, office or bureau for assistance in
the discharge of, and form committees to facilitate the performance of its functions and responsibilities.

SEC. 4. The amount of Ten Million Pesos (P10,000,000.00) to be drawn from funds of the Office
of the President, shall be released for the operations of the Task Force for 1998. Appropriations for the
succeeding years shall be incorporated in the budget proposals under the Office of the President.

SEC. 5. All executive issuances, orders, rules and regulations, or parts, thereof, inconsistent with
this Executive Order are hereby revoked or modified accordingly.

SEC. 6. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 7th day of August, in the year of our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998).
Presidential Management Staff.

[ Executive Order Nos.:

- 338]. Manila:

OFFICIAL GAZETTE

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 7

PROVIDING FOR THE CREATION OF A PRESIDENTIAL ASSISTANT FOR REGIONAL
CONCERNS SYSTEM AND DEFINING THE FUNCTIONS, POWERS
AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE PRESIDENTIAL ASSISTANTS

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the State to further decentralize the operations of the government
down to the field in order to effectively ensure the delivery of basic services to the people;

WHEREAS, issues and concerns at the local level transcend provincial boundaries;

WHEREAS, under the Administrative Code of 1987, the President has the continuing authority
to reorganize the administrative structure of the Office of the President to achieve simplicity, economy,
and efficiency;

WHEREAS, this policy is implemented by, among others, grouping local government units
and regions into areas of responsibility in order to allow greater coordination and more efficient
administration;

NOW THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested in me, do hereby order:

Sec. 1. Creation . - There is hereby created the Presidential Assistant for Regional Concerns
(PARECOs). For this purpose, a Presidential Assistant (PA) shall be appointed to the following areas to
serve as liaison officers of the Office of the President in the said areas:

1. Presidential Assistant for Northern Luzon - The provinces of Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union,
Pangasinan, Batanes, Cagayan, Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, Quirino, and the cities of Laoag, San
Fernando, Dagupan, San Carlos, Urdaneta and Santiago.

2. Presidential Assistant for Bicol Region - The provinces of Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines
Sur, Catanduanes, Masbate, Sorsogon and the cities of Legaspi, Iriga, and Naga.

3. Presidential Assistant for Eastern Visavas - The provinces of Biliran, Eastern Samar, Leyte,
Northern Samar, Western Samar, Southern Leyte and the cities of Ormoc, Tacloban and Calbayog.

4. Presidential Assistant for Central Visavas - The provinces of Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental,
Siquijor and the cities of Tagbilaran, Cebu, Danao, Lapu-lapu, Mandaue, Toledo, Bais, Canlaon,
and Dumaguete.

5. Presidential Assistant for Western Visavas - The provinces of Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Iloilo, Negros
Occidental, Guimaras, and the cities of Roxas, Iloilo, Passi, Bacolod, Bago, Victorias, Cadiz,
La Carlota, San Carlos, Silay, Sagay, Kabankalan and Talisay.

6. Presidential Assistant for North and South Eastern Mindanao - The provinces of Agusan del
Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao
Oriental, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, Compostela Valley Province, Camiguin,
Misamis Occidental, Misamis Oriental and Bukidnon and the cities of Butuan, Surigao, Davao,

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

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General Santos, Tagum, Gingoog, Oroquieta, Ozamis, Tangub, Malaybalay, Cagayan de Oro, and
the Island Garden City of Samal.

7. Presidential Assistant for Western and Central Mindanao - The provinces of Basilan, Zamboanga
del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Lanao del Norte, and Cotabato and all chartered and the cities of
Zamboanga, Pagadian, Dipolog, Dapitan, Iligan, Kidapawan, Cotabato and Marawi.

The Regional Governor of ARMM, the Executive Director of the Cordillera Executive Board
(CEB) and the Chairman of the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) shall continue to
serve as liaison of the Office of the President in their respective areas consistent with their mandate, as
provided by law.

Sec. 2. Abolition of OP Extension Offices and CORD System . The extension offices of the Office
of the President in Mindanao and Visayas created pursuant to Executive Order No. 7, series of 1992,
are hereby abolished. Likewise, the Cabinet Officer for Regional Development (CORD) System created
pursuant to Administrative Order No. 55, series of 1988, as amended by Administrative Order No. 95,
series of 1988, series of 1988, is hereby abolished.

All existing plantilla positions, equipment, vehicles, and other physical assets acquired by these
offices are hereby transferred to the Office of the President.

Sec. 3. Functions. Powers, and Responsibilities of the PA . - The PAs shall have the following
functions, powers, and responsibilities:

1. Pursue matters/issues in the field that are submitted to the Office of the President (i.e., socio-
economic, political, programs/projects and others);

2. Monitor programs/projects/developments deemed critical to the Office of the President;

3. Undertake issue resolution as may be directed by the President and/or the Executive Secretary;

4. Provide assistance in the preparation and conduct of Presidential visits in the area; and,

5. Perform such other functions and duties as the President and/or the Executive Secretary may
assign from time to time.

Sec. 4. Rank and Emolument of the PAs . Each of the Presidential Assistant for Regional Concerns
shall have the emolument equivalent to an Assistant Secretary (Director V).

Sec. 5. Operating Principles . - The PAs shall not be another layer in the bureaucracy and shall
therefore not duplicate the regular functions of any government agency, LGUs or existing regional
bodies/councils and commissions, or as may be created by the President. They shall, however, be
designated as members of these regional bodies as well as other inter-agency commissions and bodies
existing in their areas of responsibility. The PARECO shall not, in any case, be appointed or elected as
Chairman or Head of the Regional Development Councils (RDCs) and other existing regional bodies
and commissions.

The PAs shall be under the administrative control and supervision of the Executive Secretary and
will submit report to the President, through the Executive Secretary, copy furnished the Presidential
Management Staff. The PAs shall have no line authority and supervision over other agencies and local
government units.

To ensure coordination and the integration of development programs and projects in all regions,
the Presidential Assistants shall meet every Monday of the first week of the month in Malacanang, with
the Presidential Legislative Adviser/Head, Presidential Legislative Liaison Office and the Presidential
Assistant for Political Affairs, to be presided over by the Executive Secretary.

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Sec. 6. Technical and Administrative Support . -The PAs shall hold office at the regional office of
the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA). DBM and NEDA shall rationalize the eighty
(80) plantilla positions allocated to the former extension offices of the President for the Visayas and
Mindanao. These positions shall likewise be re-allocated proportionately to all PARECOs with the
purpose of providing at most five (5) technical and administrative staff per PARECO office.

Existing vehicles, office equipment and materials acquired by the OP extension offices shall
likewise be distributed equitably to all PARECOs.

Sec. 7. Fund Requirement . - The PAs will be provided with the fund balance of the existing
budget for the extension offices of the President for Visayas and Mindanao, as provided in the 1998
General Appropriations Act and the CORD System, as approved by the previous President.

Appropriations to sustain the operations of the PARECOs for succeeding years shall be
incorporated in the budget proposal of the OP, based on a budgetary program to be submitted by each
PARECO for purposes of determining fund requirements, subject to the approval of the President.

Sec. 8. Implementing Guidelines . - The Implementing Guidelines to operationalize the PARECOs
is hereby attached.

Sec. 9. Repealing Clause . - All orders, issuances, rules and regulations, and other issuances or
parts thereof which are inconsistent with this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified
accordingly.

Sec. 10. Effectivitv - This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 30 th day of September, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety-Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 8

CREATING A PRESIDENTIAL ANTI-ORGANIZED CRIME COMMISSION
AND A PRESIDENTIAL ANTI-ORGANIZED CRIME TASK FORCE, TO INVESTIGATE
AND PROSECUTE CRIMINAL ELEMENTS IN THE COUNTRY

WHEREAS, organized syndicated crimes continue to undermine the ongoing anti-crime
campaign, thereby greatly affecting the peace and order situation that contribute to the worsening
economic condition;

WHEREAS, a sustained, relentless and dedicated campaign to minimize organized and syndicated
crimes as well as to neutralize their protectors in government are among the priorities of the
administration;

WHEREAS, the Administrative Code of 1987 empowers the President with the continuing
authority to reorganize the Office of the President and to transfer functions from one department or
agency to another;

WHEREAS, the creation of a Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Task Force especially tasked to
investigate and prosecute all criminal syndicates and their protectors is imperative to bring about focus
and substantive results in the campaign against criminality and corrupt practices;

WHEREAS, there is a need to identify and effectively prosecute criminal groups and their
protectors in government through efficient intelligence and counter-intelligence efforts;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1 ORGANIZATION. There is hereby created a Presidential Anti-Organized Crime
Commission, and a Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Task Force under the Office of the President.

SEC. 2. COMPOSITION AND LEADERSHIP. The Task Force shall be composed of selected
PNP/AFP members and representatives from other branches of the government. It shall be headed
by a qualified senior law enforcement officer to be appointed by the President. He shall be assisted
by a Deputy Chief for Operations, a Deputy Chief for Administration and a Functional Staff in the
implementation of policies within their respective functional areas. The Functional Staff shall be
composed of the Administrative/Logistics Division, Operations Division, Technical Division and the
Legal and Investigation Division.

SEC. 3. POWERS AND FUNCTIONS. The Task Force shall have the following powers and
functions:

a) Prepare and implement a fast track anti-crime and anti-graft and corruption action agenda
and adopt appropriate measures to ensure an effective and efficient anti-crime drive;

b) Conduct intelligence and counter-intelligence operations to identify government officials and
employees, crime syndicates and their cohorts who are involved in criminal activities;

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c) Cause or direct the immediate arrest, investigation and speedy prosecution of crime syndicates,
government officials and employees and their cohorts, with due regard to constitutional
processes;

d) Refer the case/s at hand, as the Task Force may deem proper and necessary, to the Department
of Justice, and/or other appropriate law enforcement agencies for investigation or prosecution,
as the case may be;

e) Follow up the progress of on-going investigation and prosecution of cases taken cognizance
of by the Task Force;

f) Recommend the passage of appropriate anti-crime issuances and legislations;

g) Select and recruit personnel from within the PNP, the AFP and other law enforcement agencies
for assignment to the Task Force subject to the conformity of the agency concerned;

h) Enlist the assistance of any department, bureau, office, agency or instrumentality of the
Government, including government-owned and/or controlled corporations, in the anti-crime
and anti-graft and corruption drive, which may include the use of their respective personnel,
facilities and resources for a more resolute prevention, detection and investigation of crimes
and prosecution of their perpetrators;

i) Subject to existing laws, grant monetary rewards or incentives to informants giving vital
information leading to the successful prosecution of criminal offenders and corrupt
government officials;

j) Coordinate with the Witness Protection Security and Benefits Program Committee of the
Department of Justice to evaluate and assess witnesses who may qualify under the provisions
of Republic Act No. 6981, otherwise known as the Witness Protection and Benefit Act;

k) Subject to the approval of the President, authorized access to documents, installations and
facilities in pursuit of specific crime investigation over government agencies and government
owned or controlled corporations; and

l) Recruit civilian personnel and enlist their services for intelligence gathering efforts.

SEC. 4. OFFENSES COVERED. The Task Force shall have the authority to take cognizance of
the following crimes:

a) Those committed by the organized/syndicated crime groups, including but not limited
to gunrunning, illegal logging, robbery/hold-up, kidnapping for ransom, white slavery,
illegal recruitment, carnapping, smuggling, piracy, drug trafficking, falsification of land
titles and other government forms, large scale swindling, film piracy, counterfeiting and
bank frauds;

b) Those considered and punished as heinous crimes under Republic Act No. 7659 (Fleinous
Crime Law);

c) Those committed by the members of the Philippine National Police and/or the Armed Forces
of the Philippines;

d) Those committed by officials and employees of government agencies including government-
owned and controlled corporations;

e) Such other criminal offenses as the President may determine from time to time.

An organized/syndicated crime group for purposes of this Executive Order means a group of two
or more persons collaborating, confederating or mutually helping one another in the commission of
any crime and sometimes enjoying the protection of people in the government and public service.

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SEC. 5. The Commission herein created shall be composed of the following:
The President -

Chairman

The Secretary of Justice

Member

The National Security Adviser

Member

The Undersecretary of Interior and Local Government

Member

The Chief of Staff, Armed Forces of the Philippines

Member

Director-General, Philippine National Police

Member

Four (4) representatives from the Private Sector to be appointed by
the President

Member

The Commission shall exercise general control and supervision over the Task Force. It shall enlist
the assistance of civic and other similar associations and provide a forum for continuing consultation
among concerned sectors with our society leading to the formulation of policies to be recommended to
the President in the form of issuances and legislation.

SEC. 6. AGENCIES ASSISTANCE. All government agencies and instrumentalities, including but
not limited to the:

a) Philippine National Police (PNP)

b) National Bureau of Investigation (NBI)

c) National Prosecution Service (NPS)

d) Bureau of Immigration and Deportation (BID)

e) Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR)

f) Economic Intelligence and Investigation Bureau (EIIB)

g) Bureau of Customs (BOC)

h) National Intelligence and Coordinating Agency (NICA)

i) Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)

j) Land Transportation Office (LTO)

k) Forest Management Bureau (FMB)

l) National Telecommunications Commission (NTC)

m) National Statistics and Census Office (NCSO)

n) Land Registration Authority (LRA)

o) Philippine Overseas Employment Authority (POEA)

p) Other government agencies which The Force may find necessary to implement its mandate.

SEC. 7. COMMAND AND CONTROL. The flow of command and control of the Task Force
shall be as follows:

a) The Force Chief shall report and be directly responsible to the President;

b) The Force Chief shall have immediate supervision and control over all units of the Task Force.
Fie is authorized to designate duties and functions of personnel under him;

c) The component units from the PNP, AFP, DOJ and selected/chosen representatives of other
government agencies shall be attached to the Force Chief by their respective mother units. The
Force Chief shall have direct operational and supervisory authority over these personnel.

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SEC. 8. FUNDING. Subject to the usual audit, the Task Force shall be provided with an initial
annual allocation of ONE HUNDRED TWENTY MILLION PESOS (P120, 000, 000.00) to be
drawn from the President’s Contingency Fund and from government’s savings. Appropriations for
the succeeding years shall be incorporated in the budget proposal for the Office of the President. The
Commission shall be provided with an initial funding from the respective agencies represented in the
Commission. Thereafter, appropriations for the succeeding years shall be incorporated in the budget
proposal of the Office of the President.

SEC. 9. DISSOLVED AGENCIES. The Presidential Anti-Crime Commission (PACC) and the
Presidential Task Force on Intelligence and Counter-Intelligence (PTFICI) are hereby dissolved and
deactivated effective immediately. All properties and equipment of the PACC and PTFICI shall be
turned-over to the Task Force.

SEC. 10. OPERATING GUIDELINES. The Task Force shall adopt, in coordination with
command law enforcement agencies, such operating guidelines as may be necessary to implement
this Executive Order, subject to the approval of the President. It shall submit to the President through
the Commission, reports of its activities with appropriate recommendations for the information and
guidance of the President.

SEC. 11. COORDINATING INSTRUCTIONS. The intendment of this issuance is to put strong
and intensified focus against organized/syndicated crimes, heinous and related offenses to be addressed
by the Task Force in course of the government’s anti-crime campaign, while the Philippine National
Police (PNP) shall continue to be the primary general law enforcement agency of the country pursuant
to Republic Act No. 6875, as amended. Accordingly, close coordination and cooperation shall be
undertaken by the Chief of the Force, the Chief, PNP and other heads of law enforcement agencies, to
insure synergy in the overall anti-crime campaign. Vertical and lateral coordination among operating
units, consistent with the security need to prevent compromise in police operations, is hereby enjoined.

SEC. 12. EFFECTIVITY. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 22 day of July, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred and
Ninety-Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 9

DIRECTING ALL CONCERNED GOVERNMENT INSTITUTIONS TO ENSURE THE
MILLENNIUM COMPLIANCE OF THEIR COMPUTER-BASED SYSTEMS

WHEREAS, the Year 2000 poses serious problems inherent in computer software and hardware
systems, especially on the aspect of century change of date from Year 1999 to Year 2000;

WHEREAS, government departments, attached agencies, government- owned and controlled
corporations, constitutional commissions, state universities and colleges, LGUs and other government
instrumentalities have invested considerable amounts in the computerization of their offices and said
investments are now at serious risk due to the MILLENNIUM BUG PROBLEM;

WHEREAS, to ensure the smooth transition of all information processing systems to the
Year 2000, computerized government offices had been directed to develop/formulate Year 2000
conversion plans by concerned government agencies (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Securities and
Exchange Commission and the Insurance Commission of the Department of Finance and the National
Computer Center);

WHEREAS, despite the previous issuances of concerned government agencies, no specific nor
definite plan had been developed/formulated, much less implemented, to address the magnitude and
urgency of the Year 2000 problem in affected government offices;

WHEREAS, there remains only one and a half years to institute corrective actions on all
information processing systems for the government as well as, the private sector, to be millennium
compliant;

WHEREAS, the Government of the Philippines, through the TECHNOLOGY and LIVELIHOOD
RESOURCE CENTER (TLRC), an attached agency under the Office of the President, recognized the
urgency and significance of the Year 2000 problem such that a TLRC Data Center was established at
the Cyber City, Clark Special Economic Zone (CSEZ), specifically to provide a comprehensive and
total Y2K service and solution for the millennium bug problem;

WHEREAS, the TLRC Data Center, with its state-of-the art facilities and strategic alliance with
Year 2000 partners, has the proven capability as a Y2K service and solution provider for year 2000
impacted agencies and organizations;

WHEREAS, despite the urgency to address the Millennium Bug Problem, current fiscal constraints
demand prudence in government expenditures;

WHEREAS, the TLRC Data Center, being a government owned facility, can be tapped as a Y2K
solution provider primarily for government offices and can viably reduce costs on the part of recipient
agencies.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me, do hereby order and direct:

SECTION 1. All concerned government institutions to avail of the Y2K services and solution
from the Technology and Livelihood Resources Center (TLRC) in order to render their computer-based
systems millennium compliant by the Year 2000 and at the most economical cost to the government.

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SECTION 2. The Technology and Livelihood Resource Center (TLRC) to formulate and provide
cost-effective Y2K total solutions packages specifically for government institutions.

SECTION 3. The availing government institutions to allocate funds from their existing resources
and/or savings for their respective Y2K total solutions package.

SECTION 4. All concerned government institutions to report to the Office of the President their
status of compliance to the provisions of this Executive Order on or before 31 October 1998.

SECTION 5. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

Done in the City of Manila, this 4 day of August, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred and
Ninety-Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

President

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1
Presidential Management Staff.

338]. Manila:

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 10

AMENDING EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 512 (S.1992) PROVIDING FOR THE CREATION
OF THE MINDANAO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

WHEREAS, Executive Order No. 512 (S. 1992) created the Mindanao Economic Development
Council (MEDCO) to accelerate growth and development of the area through a wholistic and
integrated manner;

WHEREAS, Section 4 of Executive Order 512 provides for the appointment of the Council’s
Chairman and Vice Chairman by the President from among the RDC Chairmen-members and RPDB-
Chairman-members of MEDCO;

WHEREAS, Executive Order No. 7 (S. 1992) designates the Presidential Assistant for Mindanao
as Chairman of the Mindanao Economic Development Council;

WHEREAS, there is a need to rationalize the appointment procedures for the Officers of the
MEDCO to enhance the responsiveness of the Council to the development objectives for Mindanao;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby amend Executive Order No. 512:

SECTION 1. Section 4 of Executive Order No. 512 dated 19 March 1992 is hereby amended to
read as follows:

“The Council shall have a Chairman and Vice Chairman to be appointed by the President”

SECTION 2. All orders, issuances, rules and regulations and other issuances or parts thereof
which are inconsistent with this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

SECTION 3. This Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE, in the City of Manila, this 13th day of August, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). / Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO 11

APPROVING THE THIRD REGULAR FOREIGN INVESTMENTS NEGATIVE LIST

WHEREAS, Republic Act 8179, which amends RA 7042 also known as the Foreign Investments
Act of 1991, provides the formulation of a Regular Foreign Investments Negative List covering the
investment areas/activities which may be opened to foreign investors and/or reserved to Filipino nationals;

WHEREAS, the Regular Foreign Investment Negative List, consisting of List A and B, has the
effectivity of two years pursuant to the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Foreign Investments
Act of 1991;

WHEREAS, there is a need to formulate the third Foreign Investment Negative List in view of the
expiration of the effectivity of the existing List on 23 October 1998, as well as to incorporate thereto
those provisions of existing laws on foreign investments;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by Law, do hereby order;

SECTION 1. Only the investment areas and/or activities listed in Annex A herewith shall
be reserved to Philippine nationals, and hereafter shall be referred to as the Third Regular Foreign
Investments Negative List. The extent of foreign equity participation in these areas shall be limited to
the percentages indicated in the List.

SECTION 2. Any amendment to List A may be made at any time to reflect changes instituted
in specific laws while amendments to List B shall not be made more often than once every two years,
pursuant to Section 8 of the Foreign Investments Act of 1991 as amended, and of its Implementing
Rules and Regulations.

SECTION 3. All orders, issuances, regulations or parts thereof, which are inconsistent with this
Order are hereby revoked or modified accordingly.

SECTION 4. This Order shall take effect immediately October 1998.

DONE, in the City of Manila, this 11 th day of August, in the year of our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Reference: Annex A

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998).
Presidential Management Staff.

[ Executive Order Nos.:

- 338]. Manila:

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 12

REVITALIZING THE PRIVATIZATION PROGRAM OF THE GOVERNMENT

WHEREAS, Proclamation No. 50, s. 1986, as amended, launched a program for the desposition
and privatization of government corporations and or the assets thereof and created the Committee on
Privatization (COP) and the Asset Privatization Trust (APT);

WHEREAS, Executive Order No. 37, s. 1992, restated the privatization policy of Government
by encouraging government agencies and government corporations to identify assets which may
be disposed of to the private sector and activities which may be more efficiently, effectively and
economically undertaken by the private sector; and that disposition of such assets activities may be
undertaken through sale of physical assets, leasing of assets, management and maintenance contracts
or build-operate-transfer (BOT) schemes;

WHEREAS, of the 562 Government Owned and Controlled Corporations (GOCCs) Assets,
approved by the President for privatization, 453 were privatized disposed as of June 30, 1998,
generating gross sales proceeds of P184 billion;

WHEREAS, the privatization program has helped substantially in improving the investment
climate, attracting foreign investments, broadening ownership base, developing the local capital
market, and generating substantial revenues for priority government expenditures;

WHEREAS, there is a vast opportunity for promoting private sector participation in developing
the Philippine economy;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

Section 1. Reaffirming the Privatization Program. - The National Government hereby reaffirms
its privatization policy to promote an orderly, coordinated and efficient program for the privatization
of government entities, assets or activities which are better managed, undertaken or owned by the
private sector. This privatization program shall cover not only the sale of share or assets but also other
modes of privatization such as leasing, management and maintenance contracts, BOT schemes or joint
venture arrangements.

Sec. 2. Identification of Assets/GOCCs for Privatization. - All heads of departments, bureaus,
agencies and its instrumentalities, including government owned or controlled corporations (GOCCs)
and local government units (LGUs) are hereby directed to identify and list assets which may be offered
for sale to acquisition by the private sector and/or activities which may be more efficiently, effectively
and economically undertaken by the private sector and submit said list to the COP which is the central
agency for all privatization activities of Government. An initial list shall be submitted to the COP
within thirty (30) days from issuance hereof. Additional lists may be submitted to the COP at a later
stage as additional assets GOCCs are further identified for privatization.

Sec. 3. Coverage of COP Privatization Activities. - The COP is empowered to oversee the entire
government’s privatization program, pursuant to Proclamation No. 50, as amended. The program

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shall include the privatization of GOCCs as approved by the President of the Philippines and other
privatization activities of government agencies, LGUs and retained GOCCs, including the various
authorities such as, but not limited to, the Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA), the
Public Estates Authority (PEA), the Philippine Tourism Authority (PTA), the Philippine Economic Zone
Authority (PEZA) and the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA).

Any disposition related activities (i. e., sale, lease, management contract, joint venture schemes,
BOT and its variants) by these agencies, GOCCs or LGUs shall be undertaken with the prior approval
of the COP in accordance with the disposition guidelines provided by the COP and other existing rules
and regulations on disposition of assets.

The COP shall issue the necessary rules and regulations for the implementation of this provision
within sixty (60) days from issuance hereof.

Sec. 4. Repealing Clause. - All executive orders, rules and regulations and other issuances or
parts thereof that are inconsistent with the provisions of this Executive Order are hereby repealed and
modified accordingly.

Sec. 5. Effectivity. - This Order shall take effect immediately.

Done in the City of Manila, this 14 th day of AUGUST, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 13

ATTACHING THE SOUTHERN PHILIPPINES DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
TO THE PRESIDENTIAL COMMITTEE ON FLAGSHIP PROGRAMS AND PROJECTS

WHEREAS, the Southern Philippines Development Authority (SPDA) was created pursuant
to Presidential Decree No. 1703, as amended, in order to promote the development of Southern
Philippines;

WHEREAS, the SPDA was attached to the Presidential Management Staff (PMS) by virtue of
Executive Order No. 130, after the Ministry of Human Settlements was abolished in 1987;

WHEREAS, the SPDA was mandated under the GRP-MNLF Peace Accords to be one of the
institutional mechanisms for peace and development in the Special Zone of Peace and Development
(SZOPAD);

WHEREAS, under Section 31, Chapter 10, Book III of the Administrative Code of 1987, the
President of the Philippines has continuing authority to reorganize the administrative structure of the
Office of the President, and the SPDA, PMS, and the Presidential Committee on Flagship Programs and
Projects are all under the Office of the President; and

WHEREAS, agricultural development will be a main focus and be part of the “flagship” program
under this Administration, and the SPDA has the mandate, organization and capability to undertake
agricultural development specially in Southern Philippines.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

Section 1. For better policy and program coordination, the Southern Philippines Development
Authority is hereby attached to the Presidential Committee on Flagship Programs and Projects.
Accordingly, the SPDA shall coordinate its programs and projects with the Office of the President
through the Flagship Committee.

Section 2. This Executive Order shall take effect fifteen days following its publication in a
newspaper of general circulation.

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DONE in the City of Manila, Philippines this 17th day of August, in the year of Our Lord,
Nineteen Hundred and Ninety Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANAN PALACE
MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 14

ESTABLISHING THE PRESIDENTIAL COMMISSION ON YEAR 2000 COMPLIANCE

WHEREAS, consistent with State policies as enunciated under Section 24, Article II of the
Constitution, which states that: “The State recognizes the vital role of communication and information
in nation building”;

WHEREAS, the Constitution also provides in Section 10, Article XIV, that: “Science and
Technology are essential for national development and progress. The State shall give priority to
research and development, invention, innovation and their utilization; and to science and technology
education, training and services. It shall support indigenous, appropriate and self-reliant scientific and
technological capabilities and their application to the country’s productive system and national life”;

WHEREAS, the Constitution further provides, in Section 12, Article XIV, that: “The State shall
regulate the transfer and promote the adaptation of technology from all sources for the national
benefit. It shall encourage the widest participation of private groups, local governments and community
based organizations in the generalization and utilization of science and technology”;

WHEREAS, the Philippines, as a member of the global community is facing the enormous Year
2000 computer problem also known as the “Y2K Bug” or the “Millennium Bug”;

WHEREAS, the “Y2K Bug” or “Millennium Bug” is a result of the general practice of using
two digits, instead of four, to represent a year and keep track of the date, for efficiency in software
programming;

WHEREAS, as a consequence of this practice, most computer systems will — on or before
January 1, 2000 - recognize “double zero” (“00”) in dates not as 2000 but as 1900;

WHEREAS, the “Y2K Bug” or “Millennium Bug” if not fixed, will wreak havoc on computer-
based systems — cause computers to generate erroneous data and lead to system crashes that may
disrupt business operation and vital utilities and public services;

WHEREAS, the “Y2K Bug” or “Millennium Bug” will affect domestic business and the financial
community as it may result to warranty disclaimers, liability caps, corporate mismanagement liabilities,
and potential third-party damages in computer-based and computer-assisted systems;

WHEREAS, the damage the problem will cause could lead to economic and financial crisis that
will threaten the security of the nation;

WHEREAS, the enormity of the problem impels the creation and establishment of a body in the
highest levels of government to direct and coordinate all efforts for Year 2000 compliance to avert the
threat the “Y2K Bug” or the “Millennium Bug” poses to the nation.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested in me by the Constitution, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Presidential Commission on Year 2000 Compliance. There is hereby created
a Presidential Commission on Year 2000 Compliance, hereinafter referred to as the Commission,
under the Office of the President. The Commission shall be composed of the Presidential Consultant

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on Computer Education as Chairman; and the Secretary of Trade and Industry, Secretary of Science
and Technology, the Managing Director of the National Computer Center, the Director General of
the Technology and Livelihood Resource Center and three representatives from the private sector as
members who shall be appointed by the President upon the recommendation of the ex-officio members
of the Commission. They shall be persons of good moral character and of recognized competence in the
field of information technology, law, economics, finance, banking, commerce, industry or engineering.
They shall serve for term of three years.

The Commission shall be organized and hold its first meeting within thirty (30) days from the
promulgation of this Executive Order.

SEC. 2. Powers and Functions of the Commission. The commission shall have the following
powers and functions:

a. To conduct and complete a study on the extent and cost of the damage that the “Y2K Bug” or
“Millennium Bug” shall cause to both the public and private sector and to the financial well-
being of the country as well as the state of readiness of both sectors for the Year 2000;

b. To establish a comprehensive two-year Year 2000 Compliance Plan that shall serve as guide in
the implementation of swift, concrete and effective programs to ensure the nation’s readiness
for the Year 2000;

c. To recommend incentives for companies and government institutions that undertake Year
2000 compliance work;

d. To undertake concrete and effective action against the dumping into Philippine territory of
hardware and software and information technology-based products that are not Year 2000
compliant;

e. To promote general awareness on the urgent and critical issues on the problem and to
undertake initiatives and programs aimed at tackling the “Y2K Bug” or the “Millennium
Bug”;

f. To monitor the status of actual Year 2000 compliance by the private and public sectors
particularly on systems of critical infrastructure providers;

g. To establish and maintain close relationship, with the view of sharing and obtaining up-to-
date information, with local and international experts and bodies in the field, particularly
with those who are active in Year 2000 compliance efforts, for strategy formulation;

h. To enter into joint projects with the Department of Science and Technology, Department of
Education, Culture and Sports, National Computer Center, and other appropriate government
and private sector agencies in the pursuit of its objectives;

To submit periodic and annual reports to the President regarding the activities of the
Commission;

To recommend the modification/amendments of existing laws, rules, regulations and
procedures to remove impediments to the swift, effective and efficient implementation of the
programs and activities of the Commission;

k. To complete the task of making computer-based system of all government institutions Year
2000 compliant by September 30, 1999.

SEC. 3. Meetings, Quorum and Secretariat. The Commission shall meet at least twice a month,
or as often as necessary at the discretion of the chairman or upon the request of a majority of the
members of the Commission. The presence of a majority of the members of the Commission shall
constitute a quorum.

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A secretariat shall be organized by the Commission on its organizational meeting.

SEC. 4. Honoraria and Allowances. The Commission shall provide for honoraria and allowances
for council members and its personnel subject to existing rules and regulations.

SEC. 5. Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Commission. The chairman shall preside over the
meetings of the Commission and shall implement its decisions. He shall exercise over-all supervision
and control on the operations and programs of the Commission.

The Commission shall elect from among its members a vice chairman who shall act as chairman
in case the chairman is unable to temporarily perform his functions or in case of vacancy in the Office
of the Chairman. He shall perform such other functions as may be assigned to him by the chairman.

SEC. 6. Technical and Administrative Staff. The Commission shall organize its technical and
administrative staff under the secretariat to be headed by an executive director who shall be designated
by the Chairman. The executive director shall have at least five (5) years relevant experience in technical
and administrative matters. He shall hold office on a full time basis and shall not be removed except for
cause. The technical and administrative staff shall not be removed except for cause. The technical and
administrative staff shall be composed of personnel also to be designated by the chairman. The shall
receive such salary and remuneration as may be determined by the Commission subject to existing
rules and regulations.

SEC. 7. Term of the Commission. The Commission shall cease to exist on June 30, 2000 unless its
term is extended by an act of Congress or by the President.

SEC. 8. Rules and Regulations. The Commission shall promulgate rules and regulations to
implement the provisions of this Executive Order. Such rules and regulations shall take effect fifteen
(15) days after their publication in a newspaper of general circulation.

SEC. 9. Separability Clause. In the event that the provisions of this Executive Order are hereby
declared to be separable and in the event any provisions or part thereof is declared unconstitutional the
other provisions or parts thereof which are not effected thereby shall remain in full force and effect.

SEC. 10. Repealing Clause. All laws, decrees, executive orders, administrative orders, rules and
regulations inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed, amended or modified accordingly.

SEC. 11. EFFECTIVITY. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, Philippines, this 19th day of August, in the year of Our Lord,
Nineteen Hundred and Ninety-Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 15

REDIRECTING THE FUNCTIONS AND OPERATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT
OF SOCIAL WELFARE AND DEVELOPMENT

WHEREAS, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, hereafter referred to as DSWD,
has been transformed from a direct service deliverer to a technical assistance provider as a result of the
devolution of basic services to the local government units;

WHEREAS, the DSWD seeks to serve as the national policy and regulatory institution for social
welfare and development from which local government units, non-government organizations, and
other members of civil society involved in social welfare and development will anchor their thrust and
directions;

WHEREAS, to effectively fulfill its refocused mandate, the DSWD is required to undergo changes
in its roles, functions, organizational processes, corporate values, skills, technology and structure;

WHEREAS, Section 20, Chapter 7, Title I, Book III of Executive Order No. 292, otherwise known
as the Administrative Code of 1987, empowers the President of the Philippines to exercise such powers
and functions as are vested in him under law;

WHEREAS, Section 78 of the General Provisions of RA 8522, empowers the President to direct
changes in the organization and key positions in any department, bureau or agency;

WHEREAS, Section 80 of the General Provisions of RA 8522 (FY 1998 General Appropriations
Act) directs heads of departments, bureaus and agencies to scale down, phase out or abolish activities
no longer essential in the delivery of public services;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order the following:

SECTION 1. Mandate. Consistent with the provisions of the Administrative Code of 1987 and
of RA 7160 (Local Government Code), the DSWD is hereby mandated to provide assistance to local
government units (LGUs), non-government organizations (NGOs), other national government agencies
(NGAs), people’s organizations (POs) and other members of civil society in effectively implementing
programs, projects, and services that will alleviate poverty and empower disadvantaged individuals,
families and communities for an improved quality of life.

SEC. 2. Roles. To fulfill its responsibilities under this mandate, the DSWD shall serve as:

a) the lead line agency and authority in formulating national social welfare and development
policies, plans, programs, and statistics, especially as these relate to family development and
poverty groups;

b) the monitor and evaluator of the implementation of policies, plans and programs on family
welfare and development and poverty alleviation efforts in the social welfare and development
sector;

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c) administrator of special social services and social development funds intended to assist
disadvantaged individuals, families and communities;

d) innovator of new strategies on social services and development in identified social laboratories
and learning centers;

e) enabler of LGUs, NGOs, other NGAs, POs and other members of civil society in implementing
social welfare and development programs through technical assistance; and

f) an advocate for social welfare and development concerns, to include disadvantaged families,
children/youth, women, senior citizens, persons with disabilities and similarly situated individuals.

SEC. 3 Powers and Functions. To accomplish its mandate and roles, the Department shall:

a) Formulate, develop and promote policies, plans, programs and projects in the field of social
welfare and development;

b) Undertake researches and studies and adopt policies to ensure the effective implementation of
public and private social welfare and development programs;

c) Initiate, promote and maintain bilateral and multilateral linkages for technical cooperation, in
coordination with the Department of Foreign Affairs;

d) Deputize law enforcement agencies in the implementation of laws, rules and regulations for the
protection of the rights of the exploited, abused and disadvantaged;

e) Regulate fund drives, public solicitations and donations for charitable or welfare purposes;

f) Set standards, accredit and provide consultative services to institutions, organizations and persons
engaged in social welfare activities and monitor performance on institutions, organizations and
person engaged in social welfare activities, both public and private;

g) Exercise technical supervision over social workers in other government settings or agencies like
courts, hospitals, schools and housing projects;

h) Promote, coordinate, establish, operate and maintain support institutional facilities, projects
and services and social laboratories and learning centers for the benefit of its constituents and in
furtherance of social welfare and development;

i) Promote, build and strengthen people’s organizations for a self-directing (welfare and
development) system at the grassroots level;

j) Develop and implement training standards and programs for personnel, social workers and
students and third-country participants for career and staff development;

k) Advocate for and disseminate information on social development issues;

l) Provide augmentation funding and resources to partners in social welfare and development; and

m) Perform such other functions as may be provided by law.

Section 4. Preparation of a Rationalization and Streamlining Plan. In view of the functional and

operational redirections in the DSWD, and to effect efficiency and effectiveness in its activities, the

Department shall prepare a Rationalization and Streamlining Plan (RSP) which shall the basis of the

intended changes. The RSP Plan shall contain the following:

a) the specific shift in policy directions, functions, programs and activities/strategies;

b) the structural/organizational shift, stating the specific functions and activities by organizational
unit and the relationship of each of these units;

c) the staffing shift, highlighting and itemizing the existing filled and unfilled positions; and

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d) the resource allocation shift, specifying the effects of the streamlined set-up on the agency budgetary

allocation and indicating where possible savings have been generated.

The RSP shall be submitted to the department of Budget and Management for approval before
the corresponding shifts shall be effected by the DSWD Secretary.

Section 5. Redeployment of Personnel. The redeployment of officials and other personnel on the
basis of the approved RSP shall not result in the diminution in rank and compensation of existing
personnel and shall take into account all pertinent Civil Service laws and rules.

Section 6. Funding. The financial resources needed to implement the Rationalization and
Streamlining Plan shall be taken from funds available in the DSWD, provided that the total
requirements for the implementation of the revised staffing pattern shall not exceed available funds for
Personnel Services.

Section 7. Implementing Authority. Following the approved RSP, the DSWD Secretary, in addition
to his/her authority to implement the RSP, is hereby authorized to determine the social laboratories/
learning centers and other social welfare and development facilities necessary for carrying out
the Department’s mandate and roles, following strictly the principles of economy, efficiency and
effectiveness.

Section 8. Effectivity. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

Done in the City of Manila, this 20th day of August, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Flundred
and Ninety-Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998).
Presidential Management Staff.

[Executive Order Nos.:

338]. Manila:

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 16

CREATING THE PRESIDENTIAL AIR QUALITY COMMISSION

WHEREAS, pursuant to Article II, Sections 15 and 16 of the 1987 Constitution, it is the policy of
the State to protect the health of its citizens and ensure the well-being of its people;

WHEREAS, under the Philippine Environmental Policy and the Philippine Environment Code,
it is the policy of the State to seek the attainment of an environmental quality conducive to a life of
dignity and well-being for the protection of the public health;

WHEREAS, the National Pollution Control Decree of 1976 and Presidential Decree No. 1181
(Providing for the Prevention, Control and Abatement of Air Pollution from Motor Vehicles and
Other Purposes) seek to promote these policies through the prevention, control, and abatement of air
pollution from both mobile and stationary sources;

WHEREAS, the deterioration of the country’s air quality, especially in Metropolitan Manila and
other large urban and densely-populated centers, will have serious and long-term effects on the health,
productivity, intelligence and general well-being of the people, especially the children;

WHEREAS, there is a need to coordinate the plans and efforts of government agencies and non-
government organizations in order to address air pollution in an organized and systematic manner;

WHEREAS, there is a need to create a full-time, inter-agency office to undertake the coordination
and systematization of air quality management activities;

WHEREAS, pursuant to Executive Order 192, the Department of Environment and Natural
Resources (DENR) is the primary government agency responsible for, inter alia, the conservation,
management, development and proper use of the country’s environment;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Creation of a Presidential Air Quality Commission (PAQC).

There is hereby created a Presidential Air Quality Commission to ensure the coordination and
effective implementation of air quality management policies, programs and laws.

SECTION 2. Composition.

The Commission shall have the following members:

Secretary, Department of Environment and Natural Resources

Vice Chair: Secretary, Department of Transportation and Communication

Members: Director-General, National Economic and Development Authority

Secretary, Department of Health
Secretary, Department of Trade and Industry
Secretary, Department of Energy

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Secretary, Department of Interior and Local Government

Secretary, Department of Science and Technology

Chairman, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority

One (1) representative each from the City and Municipal Mayors League

Representatives of Civil Society, Business and Environment Sectors, to be

chosen by the President upon the recommendation of recognized business and

environmental non-governmental organizations. Representation shall follow the

ratio of Government to NGO/Private sector of 10:8.

SECTION 3. Powers and Functions.

The Commission shall serve as an oversight body to ensure the systematic and effective
management of air quality. In particular, it shall perform the following functions:

Recommending possible legislation, policies and programs on air quality management to the
President;

(b) Preparation of an action plan to coordinate and synchronize air quality management
programs of its member agencies;

(d) Formulating proper mechanisms for the evaluation of air resources and pricing of potential
air pollutants;

(e) Undertaking information, education and communication and research activities relative to air
quality management;

(f) Preparation and adoption of guidelines for the implementation of this Order;

Creation of such number of sub-commission as may be necessary for the different airsheds
of the country which shall be subsequently identified by the DENR, in coordination with the
Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration of the DOST;
and

Other functions as may be assigned to it by the President.

The Commission shall assume coordinative/oversight responsibilities in the above listing, initially
for a period of three (3) years, in the Metro Manila airshed which consists of Metro Manila, Bulacan,
Pampanga, Batangas, Laguna, Cavite, Rizal, and part of Quezon.

Section 4. Secretariat.

The Commission shall be supported by a Secretariat, which shall be attached to the Environmental
Management Bureau of the DENR.

The Secretariat shall be the repository of the Commission’s records. It shall liaise with the different
member-agencies in matters concerning air quality management and perform such functions as may
be directed by the DENR Secretary or the Commission. The Secretary may call upon the member-
agencies of the Commission to provide technical support. Each member-agency shall assign one (1)
representative to act as the contact person of the Commission and the Secretariat.

Section 5. Report.

The Commission shall submit a quarterly report to the Office of the President on its plans,
progress and activities. The Commission shall, not later than one year from the effectivity of this

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Order, publish a report on the progress it has made on the action plan, as well as any revisions or
modifications thereto.

Section 6. Financial Resources.

An initial amount of One Million Pesos (PI, 000, 000. 00) is hereby appropriated from the
President’s Social Fund to cover the initial operating expenses of the Commission. Thereafter, the
Commission shall submit annual budget proposals for the approval of the President. Its funds shall be
augmented by such other sources as may be identified.

The Commission may receive donations, grants and other forms of assistance from local and
foreign sources to fund the operation of the Commission and its Secretariat.

Revenues derived from permits, fees, air emissions charges, fines and penalties from stationary and
mobile sources shall, as authorized by Congress, be utilized to fund the operations of the Commission
and its Secretariat.

Section 7. Repealing Clause.

All similar issuances, orders and rules inconsistent with this order are hereby repealed, revoked or
modified accordingly.

Section 8. Effectivity.

This Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila this 21 st day of AUGUST, in the year of our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1
Presidential Management Staff.

338]. Manila:

OFFICIAL GAZETTE

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 17

AMENDING CERTAIN SECTIONS OF EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 177
ESTABLISHING THE WORLD EXPO 2002 PHILIPPINE COMMISSION
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

Section 1. Section 1 of Executive Order No. 177 is hereby amended to read as follows:

“Section 1. World Expo 2002 Philippine Commission. A World Expo 2002 Philippine
Commission (hereinafter referred to as the “Commission”) is hereby established under the Office of the
President, to be composed as follows:

a. Secretary of Trade and Industry

b. Secretary, Department of Tourism

c. Chairman, World Expo 2002 Philippine Foundation

d. A representative each from the Office of the President, the
Department of Foreign Affairs, Finance, Budget and Management,
[Tourism], Public Works and Highways, Transportation and
Communications, and the National Economic and Development
Authority

e. Chairman, Bases Conversion and Development Authority

f. President, Clark Development Corporation

g. Chairman, National Centennial Commission

h. General Manager, Philippine Tourism Authority

i. Commissioner World Expo 2002 Philippine Commission

-Chairman

- Co-Chairman

-Co-Chairman

-Members

-Member

The Commission shall have four (4) private sector representatives, two (2) of whom are the
President, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and President, Philippine Airlines. The other
two (2) private sector representatives shall be designated by the President.

The Commission shall also have representatives from the local government units, who shall host
the World Expo as may be determined by the Commission. The local government unit representatives
shall also be designated by the President.

The Executive Secretary shall designate the permanent and alternate representatives from the
Office of the President and the Departments.”

Section 2. Section 5 of said Executive Order is hereby amended to read as follows:

“Section 5 - Commissioner. The President shall designate a Commissioner to the World Expo
2002 Philippine Commission.”

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ESTRADA | Volume 4

Section 3. Section 6 of said Executive Order is hereby amended to read as follows:

“Section 6. Duties of the Commissioner. In accordance with the rules of the Bureau of Internal
Exposition, the Commissioner shall have the following duties:

a. Ensure that all commitments of participants are duly complied with in accordance with the
provisions of the 1928 Convention, as amended.

b. See to the due and proper execution of all Participation Contract.

c. Secure and enhance the interests of all participants.

d. Arbitrate, conciliate and mediate conflicts between or among participants.

e. Select the Deputy Commissioners and key officials, subject to the concurrence/approval of the
Commission. The Deputies shall be designated by the President .

f. Perform such other functions and duties as may be assigned to him by the Commission.”

Section 4. Section 7 of the said Executive Order is hereby amended to read as follows:

“Section 7. Secretariat. The Commission, through the Commissioner, shall organize a Secretariat
which shall be headed by an Executive Officer.

The Secretariat shall have such number of personnel as may be necessary for the efficient and
effective performance of its functions. All agencies of the government represented in the Commission
shall assign or detail an employee each to form the Secretariat. The Commission shall provide the
Commissioner and the members of the Secretariat with such honoraria or allowances as may be
allowed by law and at rates consistent with those prescribed pursuant to the Unified Compensation
and Position Classification System established under R.A. No. 6758.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is hereby directed to initially provide the Commission
an office space at the DFA Building along Roxas Boulevard, until such time that the Commission
moves to its designated headquarters.”

Section 5. Repealing Clause. All Orders and issuance or any part thereof which are inconsistent
with the provisions of this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

Section 6. Effectivity. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

Done in the City of Manila, this 21 st day of August, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred and
ninety-eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

President of the Philippines

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

OFFICIAL GAZETTE

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANAN PALACE
MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 18

INCREASING THE SUBSISTENCE ALLOWANCE OF OFFICERS AND ENLISTED PERSONNEL
OF THE ARMED FORCES OF THE PHILIPPINES, INCLUDING DRAFTEES, TRAINEES AND
PROBATIONARY SECOND LIEUTENANTS/ENSIGNS UNDERGOING MILITARY TRAINING,
CMT CADETS ON SUMMER CAMP TRAINING AND RESERVE OFFICERS AND ENLISTED
RESERVISTS UNDERGOING TRAINING OR ASSEMBLY/MOBILIZATION TEST AND CADETS
OF THE PHILIPPINE MILITARY ACADEMY AND PHILIPPINE AIR FORCE FLYING SCHOOL.

WHEREAS, Executive Order No. 257, provides that the subsistence allowance for officers and
enlisted personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, including draftees, trainees and Probationary
Second Lieutenants/Ensigns undergoing military training, CMT cadets on summer camp training and
reserve officers and enlisted reservists undergoing training or assembly/mobilization test, be increased
from Twelve Pesos (P12.00) to Eighteen Pesos (P18.00) per day;

WHEREAS, Page 1156 of RA 6831, GAA FY 90 provides the increase of subsistence allowance
of officers and enlisted personnel of the Philippines, including the Citizens Armed Forces Geographical
Units (CAFGU) from Eighteen Pesos (P18.00) to Thirty Pesos (P30.00) per day;

WHEREAS, the current subsistence allowance of Thirty Pesos (P30.00) per day is no longer
adequate to meet the quality and quantity of food deemed appropriate for military personnel in view
of the increasing prices of food stuff;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by the Constitution, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. The subsistence allowance for officers and enlisted personnel of the Armed Forces
of the Philippines, including draftees, trainees and Probationary Second Lieutenant/Ensigns undergoing
military training, CMT cadets on summer camp training and reserve officers and enlisted reservists
undergoing training and assembly/mobilization test and cadets of Philippine Military Academy and
Philippine Air Force Flying School, is hereby increased from Thirty Pesos (P30.00) to Sixty Pesos
(P60.00) per day effective September 1, 1998.

SECTION 2. Funds needed to implement this Executive Order in CY 1998 shall be supported
from DBM Reserve Control Account and in CY 1999 and beyond shall be included in the Annual
Appropriations of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

SECTION 3. The Secretary of National Defense shall issue such implementing instructions as are
necessary and proper to carry out the intent of this Executive Order.

SECTION 4. All rules and regulations and other issuances or parts thereof that are in conflict
with this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

SECTION 5. This Executive Order shall take effect September 1, 1998.

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

Done in the City of Manila, this 25th day of August, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety-eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). / Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

OFFICIAL GAZETTE

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 19

AMENDING EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 38 DATED 07 JANUARY 1947 ENTITLED
“PROVIDING FOR THE COAT OF ARMS, SEAL AND FLAG OF THE PRESIDENT
AND VICE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES”, AS AMENDED

WHEREAS, Executive Order No. 38 dated 07 January 1947 entitled “Providing for the Coat of
Arms, Seal and Flag of the President and Vice President of the Philippines” adopted a Coat of Arms,
Seal and Flag design which consist of the eight-rayed Philippine Sun, with a red equilateral triangle
containing the traditional sea lion with a sword, and a mullet each at the corner of the three angles;

WHEREAS, Section 2 thereof provides that the seal of the President of the Philippines shall
consist of the Coat of Arms of the President of the Philippines, encircled by the words “Seal of the
President of the Philippines”;

WHEREAS, Executive Order 451 dated 04 July 1951 amended Executive Order No. 38 to
specify that the color of the sun and the sea lion shall be in golden yellow and, additionally provide
that the design shall be surrounded by stars forming an amulet in a number equivalent to the number
of provinces of the Republic as of 04 July 1951;

WHEREAS, from 1951 to the present, the total number of provinces has increased from fifty-one
(51) to seventy-eight (78); and,

WHEREAS, in view of the continuously changing number of provinces, there is need to regularly
update the Presidential Seal and Flags to ensure that the number of stars in the amulet matches the
number of provinces of the country at any given time.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Joseph Ejercito Estrada, President of the Republic of the Philippines, by
virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order the following:

SECTION 1. Section 1 of E.O. No. 38, s. of 1947, is further amended to read as follows:
“Section 1. The Coat of Arms of the President of the Philippines shall be of the following design:

Shield: the eight-rayed Philippine sun ravonnant in golden yellow; on the center, an equilateral
triangle in gules (red); overall the traditional sea lion of the Coat of Arms granted to the City of Manila in
1596, on guard with sword, or at hilt and one mullet in golden yellow in the corner of each of the three
angles of the equilateral triangle: one mullet representing Luzon; one, Visayas; and another, Mindanao.

The whole, surrounded by stars in the form of an amulet with one point of each star outward on
the imaginary radiating center lines, the number of stars conforming to the number of provinces of the
Republic at any given time.”

SEC. 2. The Office of Presidential Protocol shall ensure that all concerned offices/units in the
Office of the President shall comply with the provisions of this Order.

SEC. 3. This Order shall take effect immediately.

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

DONE in the City of Manila, this 27 th day of August, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). / Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

OFFICIAL GAZETTE

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 20

ESTABLISHING AN INTERNATIONAL NETWORK OF HONORARY INVESTMENT AND
TRADE REPRESENTATIVES TO ASSIST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY
IN PROMOTING THE PHILIPPINES GLOBALLY

WHEREAS, due to the present Asian economic recession, there is an urgent need to attract more
foreign investments into the Philippines as well as to expand the markets for Philippine products and
services abroad;

WHEREAS, available resources constrain the expansion of the corps of Philippine trade attaches;

WHEREAS, there is very encouraging interest on the part of many overseas Filipinos and other
friends of the Philippines to help the country weather the on-going Asian financial crisis;

WHEREAS, the Philippine government is desirous of working with these distinguished
personalities in the pursuit of early economic recovery.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. There is hereby established an international network of Honorary Investment and
Trade Representatives whose members shall be screened, evaluated and appointed by the Secretary of
Trade and Industry in accordance with such criteria as he may formulate.

SEC. 2. These Representatives shall not be limited to Filipino citizens, the primary consideration
being there sincere and personal desire to assist in the economic development of the Philippines. They
are to be appointed annually for specific states, areas or territories, and for terms not exceeding twelve
(12) months at a time. Renewals of such appointments shall always be based on:

a. satisfactory performance in terms of actual investments brought into the Philippines on their
initiative, or expanding the market for Philippine goods and services in their respective states,
areas or territories; and

b. non-involvement in questionable activities or practices that will adversely affect the good
name and honor of the country or its officials.

SEC. 3. Being quasi-official extensions of the Department of Trade and Industry, these
Representatives shall be of impeccable business, personal and professional reputation, with verifiable
track records of business and economic achievements. They shall receive no salary, allowance, or
remuneration from the Philippine government except a token sum of One Peso (PI. 00) per annum.

SEC. 4. There is also hereby created a Task Force on Honorary Investment and Trade
Representatives under the Secretary of Trade and Industry which shall take full and exclusive charge
of organizing, monitoring, coordinating, managing and harnessing the full potentials of the appointed
honorary representatives. All reports of the Representatives shall be sent directly to the Task Force

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

but copies thereof should be furnished the trade attache if there is one in the state, area or territory
concerned.

SEC. 5. The funding requirements of the Task Force shall be sourced from the budget of the
Department of Trade and Industry or any of its agencies, or any other funds that may be authorized by
the President.

SEC. 6. The Secretary of Trade and Industry may tap the assistance and services of any
department, office or agency of the government including but not limited to the Board of Investments,
the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, the Bureau of Immigration and Deportation, and specifically, the
Philippine International Trading Corporation (PITC), for the full and effective implementation
of this Executive Order. For this purpose, the Task Force shall maintain a direct link and working
coordination with the PITC as a corporate arm of the Department of Trade and Industry to avail of the
latter’s international trading connections and resources.

SEC. 7. The Secretary of Trade and Industry may issue the implementing rules and regulations of
this Executive Order.

DONE in the City of Manila, Philippines, this 14 day of September, in the year of Our Lord,
Nineteen Hundred and Ninety-Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

OFFICIAL GAZETTE

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 21

ATTACHING THE LIVELIHOOD CORPORATION (LIVECOR)

AND STRATEGIC INVESTMENT AND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
(SIDCOR, FORMERLY HUMAN SETTLEMENTS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION)
TO THE OFFICE OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY

WHEREAS, the Livelihood Corporation (LIVECOR) and Strategic Investment and Development
Corporation (SIDCOR, formerly Human Settlements Development Corporation), were created
pursuant to Executive Order No. 866 dated 11 January 1983, and Presidential Decree No. 1396,
respectively, in order to stimulate self-sustaining economic activities, generate employment and
entrepreneurial opportunities as a way of addressing the problems of poverty;

WHEREAS, both LIVECOR and SIDCOR were attached to the Presidential Management Staff
(PMS) by virtue of Executive Order No. 130, after the Ministry of Human Settlements was abolished
in 1987;

WHEREAS, the Office of the Executive Secretary is mandated to be on top of government overall
efforts and direction in overseeing, coordinating and managing the country’s poverty alleviation
program;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. For better policy and program coordination, the Livelihood Corporation and the
Strategic Investment and Development Corporation are hereby attached to the Office of the Executive
Secretary. Accordingly, LIVECOR and SIDCOR shall coordinate their programs and projects with the
Office of the President through the Office of the Executive Secretary.

SECTION 2. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

DONE in the City of Manila, Philippines, this 27 th day of August, in the year of Our Lord,
nineteen hundred and ninety-eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). / Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

OFFICIAL GAZETTE

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANAN PALACE
MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 22

AUTHORIZING THE NATIONAL FOOD AUTHORITY TO INTERVENE IN THE
STABILIZATION OF THE PRICE AND SUPPLY OF BASIC FOOD ITEMS

WHEREAS, the government is committed to pursue a policy of food security, especially to the less
fortunate, disadvantaged and deprived sectors of the country;

WHEREAS, the current tight economic situation aggravated by the El Nino phenomenon
significantly lessened the underprivileged sector’s capacity to access basic food;

WHEREAS, the less fortunate sectors especially in the depressed areas are clamoring for the
government’s intervention to assure their continuous access to basic food items;

WHEREAS, under Section 3 of Executive Order No. 1028, Series of 1985, “the President may, for
stabilization purposes, authorize the intervention by the appropriate government entity in the trading
of other food items if so warranted by conditions as may exist from time to time;”

WHEREAS, the National Food Authority, considering its capability and experience in the
marketing of grains and non-grain commodities, is the most appropriate government agency to
intervene in the stabilization of basic food items.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Intervention by the National Food Authority. The National Food Authority, (NFA)
is hereby authorized to include in its commodity coverage basic food items other than staple cereals,
which it may deem necessary to stabilize the country’s basic food commodity supply and process.

SEC. 2. Funding. For this purpose, the National Food Authority is authorized to use its corporate
funds, government-guaranteed credit lines and supplemental government support, when necessary.

SEC. 3. Nature of Funds. All disbursements, as well as administrative and operational expenses
incurred by virtue hereof shall be treated as a Special Projects Account subject to the usual accounting
and auditing rules and regulations.

SEC. 4. Effectivity. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

The NFA Council shall periodically review the implementation thereof and should situation
warrant, may recommend for this Order’s termination.

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

DONE in the City of Manila, this 9th day of September, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety-Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). / Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

OFFICIAL GAZETTE

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 23

ADJUSTING THE DIVIDEND RATES OF SELECTED GOVERNMENT-OWNED
AND/OR CONTROLLED CORPORATIONS ON THEIR 1997 NET EARNINGS
PURSUANT TO SECTION 5 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7656

WHEREAS, Section 1 of Republic Act No. 7656 provides that:

“Section 1. Declaration of Policy. It is hereby declared the policy of the State that in order for

the National Government to realize additional revenues, government-owned and/or controlled

corporations, without impairing their viability and the purposes for which they have been

established, shall share a substantial amount of their net earnings to the National Government.”

WHEREAS, to support the viability and mandate of government-owned and/or controlled
corporations (GOCCs), the liquidity, retained earnings position and medium-term plans and programs
of these GOCCs were considered in the determination of the reasonable dividend rates of such
corporations on their 1997 net earnings;

WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 5 of RA 7656, the Secretary of Finance recommended the
adjustment on the percentage of annual net earnings that shall be declared by the Land Bank of
the Philippines (LBP) and National Electrification Administration (NEA) in the interest of national
economy and general welfare;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH E. ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue of the
powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Percentage of net earnings to be declared and remitted by the LBP and NEA as
dividends to the National Government as provided for under Section 3 of Republic Act No. 7656 is
adjusted from at least fifty percent (50%) to the rate specified hereunder:

1. Land Bank of the Philippines 30% (cash)

2. National Electrification Administration 25% (cash)

SEC. 2. The adjusted dividend rates provided for under Section 1 are only applicable on 1997 net
earnings of the concerned government-owned and/or controlled corporations.

SEC. 3. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

DONE in the City of Manila, this 18 th day of September, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety-Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). / Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

OFFICIAL GAZETTE

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 24

CREATING THE INTEGRATED SANGGUNIANG KABATAAN ORGANIZATIONAL
LEADERSHIP AND REORIENTATION (ISKOLAR) EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AND THE
ACTION OFFICERS COMMITTEE IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE YEAR-ROUND
ISKOLAR TRAINING PROGRAM AND PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR

WHEREAS, Section 10 (o) of R.A. 8044, series of 1995, or the “Youth in Nation-Building Act”
provides for training and a national secretariat for the Sangguniang Kabataan National Federation
pursuant to R.A. 7160, otherwise known as the Local Government Code;

WHEREAS, the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) is the most organized and pervasive youth
organization nationwide and is the most viable group for which the government may initiate and
provide skills and leadership training incorporating values education among others.

WHEREAS, the National Youth Commission (NYC) pursuant to its mandate under R.A. 8044,
series of 1995, has formulated the Integrated Sangguniang Kabataan Organizational Leadership and
Reorientation (ISKOLAR) Program, a capability-building scheme which aims to provide technical
guidance to the educational, leadership, advocacy and legislative needs of the present and future
Sangguniang Kabataan officials from the national down to the local levels;

WHEREAS, under the Medium Term Youth Development Plan (MTYDP): 1999-2004, the
ISKOLAR Program is one of the flagship programs for the sector;

WHEREAS, there is need to create and institutionalize a body that will assist the NYC in ensuring
the successful implementation of the ISKOLAR Program nationwide during the plan period and
beyond;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines by virtue of
the power vested in me by law, do hereby order:

Section 1. A pproval of the Integrated Sangguniang Kabataan Organizational. Leadership and
Reorientation (ISKOLAR) Program. The ISKOLAR Program as formulated by the NYC is hereby
approved for implementation. The Program which envisions generations of empowered Sangguniang
Kabataan leaders who shall actively act as catalysts of change and development in Philippine Society,
shall have the following objectives:

1. To provide SK officials with skills and knowledge necessary to become more effective, efficient
and responsive leaders;

2. To strengthen the moral values of the SK consistent with the four pillars — Maka-Diyos,
Maka-Tao, Maka-Bayan, Maka-Kalikasan, the theory of principle- centered leadership and
development politics;

3. To assist the SK leaders in the formulation of local youth agenda and a plan of action in
consonance with the Medium Term Youth Development Plan: 1999-2004 and subsequent
Plans; and

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

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4. To develop the SK leaders into self-reliant, dynamic and creative community leaders and
agents of change.

Sec. 2. Creation of the Integrated Sangguniang Kabataan Organizational. Leadership and
Reorientation (ISKOLAR) Program Executive Committee. There is hereby created the Integrated
Sangguniang Kabataan Organizational Leadership and Reorientation Program Executive Committee,
hereinafter referred to as the “EXECOM,” that will plan, coordinate and oversee the implementation
of the ISKOLAR Program.

Sec. 3. Composition. The ISKOLAR EXECOM shall be composed of the Secretary of Interior and
Local Government as Chairman, the Chairperson of the NYC as Co-Chairperson, and senior officers
with the rank of at least Director (or its equivalent) of the following agencies, as members:

a) Commission on Eligher Education;

b) Commission on Human Rights;

c) Dangerous Drugs Board;

d) Department of Environment and Natural Resources;

e) Local Government Academy;

f) National Disaster and Coordinating Council;

g) National Movement of Young Legislators; and

h) University Center Foundation

Sec. 4. Functions and Responsibilities of the EXECOM. The EXECOM shall have the following
functions:

a) Oversee the implementation and ensure the success of the Program;

b) Serve as the policy-making and implementing body of the ISKOLAR Program;

c) Call upon any government department or agency for the necessary assistance and support for
the Program; and

d) Perform such other functions as may be assigned by the President.

Sec. 5. The ISKOLAR Action Officers. The members of the EXECOM shall designate their
respective ISKOLAR action officers from their existing personnel, both in the national and regional
levels, and whenever applicable, at the provincial, city of municipal levels. The ISKOLAR action officers
shall have the following responsibilities:

a) Act as the point person of the agency in the implementation of the Program;

b) Coordinate the implementation of the agency’s module in the ISKOLAR Program;

c) Monitor and evaluate the program and submit reports to the EXECOM and Program
Secretariat;

d) Liase with the Program Secretariat regarding the implementation of policies and activities
agreed upon by the members of the EXECOM.

e) Perform such other functions as may be assigned by the EXECOM.

Sec. 6. Program Secretariat. The Chief Executive Officer of the NYC is hereby directed to provide
a Secretariat for the ISKOLAR Program. The Secretariat shall provide administrative and technical
support, and perform such other functions as may be assigned to it by the EXECOM.

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The NYC shall also act as the Over-all Program Coordinator of the Program.

Sec. 7. Institutional Linkages and Partnerships. The EXECOM is hereby authorized to call upon
any department, bureau, office, agency or instrumentality of the Government, including government-
owned or controlled corporation for such assistance as it may need in the discharge of its functions.

The EXECOM may call on the private sector groups (business community, academe, social
and civic organizations) and other non-government organizations to provide technical and funding
assistance for the Program.

The EXECOM is further authorized to enter into partnership agreements with the private
sector and with the concerned committees of Congress, whenever necessary, provided that all legal
requirements and government rules and regulations are complied with, including rules and regulations
of the Commission on Audit (COA).

Sec. 8. Funding. The agencies involved in the implementation of the Program are hereby
authorized to allocate funds from their respective budgets to provide for the implementation of the
ISKOLAR Program subject to existing government auditing and accounting rules and regulations.

The EXECOM may solicit funding support and contributions from the private sector and foreign
institutions for the program, subject to existing government rules, regulations and legal requirements
of COA, Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), as may be necessary.

Sec. 9. Effectivitv. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

Done in the City of Manila, this 18 th day of SEPTEMBER, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen
hundred and ninety eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANAN PALACE
MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 25

FURTHER AMENDMENT OF SECTION 3 OF EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 169,
SERIES OF 1994, AS AMENDED, RECONSTITUTING THE COMPOSITION
OF THE CENTRAL BANK BOARD OF LIQUIDATORS

WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 132 (e) of Republic Act No. 7653, the Central Bank-Board of
Liquidators (CB-BOL) has the responsibility of administering, disposing of and liquidating all assets
and liabilities of the Central Bank of the Philippines not transferred to or assumed by the Bangko
Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP);

WHEREAS, Executive Order No. 169, series of 1994, prescribed that the Board shall be
composed of a Chairman and two (2) members;

WHEREAS, Executive Order No. 455, series of 1997, amended Executive Order No. 169 by
increasing the members of the Board including its Chairman to five;

WHEREAS, Executive Order No. 476, series of 1998, further amended Section 3 of Executive
Order No. 169, series of 1994; and

WHEREAS, it is desirable that the composition of the Board be further reconstituted;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order the amendment of Section 3
of Executive Order No. 169, series of 1994, as amended, to read as follows:

“SEC. 3. Composition of the Board. - The Board shall be composed of a Chairman and four

(4) Members as follows:

Chairman - Full-time member of the Monetary Board to be nominated by the Chairman
of the Monetary Board;

Members:

1. A representative of the Office of the President of the Philippines;

2. A representative of the Department of Finance to be nominated by the Secretary of
Finance;

3. A representative of the Department of Budget and Management to be nominated by the
Secretary of Budget and Management;

4. The Executive Director of the Board to be nominated by the Board.

“They shall be appointed by, and shall serve at the pleasure of, the President.”

This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

OFFICIAL GAZETTE

ESTRADA | Volume 4

DONE in the City of Manila, this 21 st day of SEPTEMBER, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety-Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 26

PROVIDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF BENEFICIARIES
UNDER THE COMPREHENSIVE LAND REFORM PROGRAM TO BECOME
PRODUCTIVE ENTREPRENEURS, PROVIDING THE MECHANISM
THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

WHEREAS, the State has launched numerous indispensable programs, projects, incentives and
facilities for the realization of the desired agrarian reform;

WHEREAS, the State, thru these undertakings, has envisioned that Comprehensive Agrarian
Reform Program beneficiaries shall become independent entrepreneurs of the lands conveyed to them
and ultimately serve as the basis of Philippine agriculture;

WHEREAS, it has been observed that despite all these efforts and lapse of time, holders of
Certificate of Land Ownership Awards have not freed themselves totally from the bondage of poverty
and dependence from government subsidies;

WHEREAS, the State has now pinpointed that the monstrous impediment to the attainment of the
desired objectives is the non-acceptability by financial institutions of the lands covered by Certificate of
Land Ownership Award as collateral to secure agricultural loans applied for by their registered owners;

WHEREAS, allowing them to use their Certificate of Land Ownership Awards as collaterals with
the lending institutions will make them invulnerable from “loan sharks” and thereby transforming
them into productive partners of the government;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1 . Acceptability as Loan Collateral . Lands covered by Certificate of Land Ownership
Award shall now be accepted as collateral to secure loans by their registered owners, with the consent
of the farmers cooperative to which he is a member, with the government financial institutions, as well
as, with the private financial institutions: Provided, That the loan proceeds shall be used exclusively in
the furtherance of the agricultural productivity of the land and related activities: Provided, further. That
the foreclosure of the lands provided herein shall, upon failure of the mortgagor to redeem the same
within the period allowed by law, be redeemed by the farmers cooperative to which the mortgagor is a
member: Provided, furthermore, That in case of default of said cooperative, the same may be redeemed
by any neighboring cooperatives or qualified beneficiaries under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform
Program: Provided, finally. That when the foreclosure of the mortgaged property took place after the
lapse of the prohibitory period provided for under Section 27 of Republic Act No. 6657, the same may
be sold to auction to any qualified person, natural or juridical, to own a land.

SEC. 2. Loan Value . Holders of Certificate of Land Ownership Award availing of the benefits
provided for under this Executive Order shall be allowed the maximum loan value provided for under
Republic Act No. 337, as amended.

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SEC. 3. Monitoring of Loan Proceeds . The concerned financial institution, for monitoring
purposes, shall notify the Department of Agrarian Reform to ensure that the loan proceeds obtained
herein shall be used solely for the productivity of the land and related activities.

SEC. 4. Penalty for Violations . The deviation by the mortgagor in the use of the loan proceeds
obtained herein shall give rise for the aforesaid farmers cooperative to take over the cultivation and
management of the land subject of mortgage until the said cooperative has recovered the amount of
loan, necessary expenses relative thereto, and a management fee of five (5%) percent of the produced
of the land.

SEC. 5. Call on the Monetary Board . In order to realize the desired objectives of this Executive
Order, the Monetary Board is hereby called upon to exempt the lands covered by the Certificate of
Land Ownership Award from its authority in reducing the maximum loan ratios of the lands used as
collateral to secure a loan.

SEC. 6. Repealing Clause . All Executive Orders, issuances, rules and regulations, or parts thereof,
inconsistent with the provisions of this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

SEC. 7. Effectivitv . This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 23 rd day of September, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety-Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998).
Presidential Management Staff.

[ Executive Order Nos.:

338]. Manila:

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 27
CONFERRING FLAGSHIP STATUS ON THE MASINLOC
(ZAMBALES INDUSTRIAL COMPLEX) PROJECT

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the government to encourage private sector initiative and active
participation in realizing national and regional growth and development;

WHEREAS, a consortium of private investors led by Smith Group Gexis, Inc. has conceptualized
and proposes to implement a Zambales Industrial Complex Project, more readily known as the
Masinloc Project, which will require at least a US$2 billion investment;

WHEREAS, the Masinloc Project aims to develop the Municipality of Masinloc into an
international transshipment port and major industrial-commercial center that will be a key to, and
a vital component of, the economic development of the entire Central Luzon of the Republic of the
Philippines;

WHEREAS, said consortium of investors entered in March 1997 into a Memorandum of
Understanding with the Province of Zambales, which agreement the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of
Zambales unanimously approved in Resolution No. 97-315 dated 14 July 1997;

WHEREAS, on 14 January 1998, Regional Flagship Team III, Regional Development Council of
the National Economic Development Authority, Team issued Resolution No. 03-01-98 to favorably
endorse the Masinloc Project as a flagship project;

WHEREAS, on 31 August 1998, the foregoing consortium of investors requested the President of
the Republic of the Philippines to endorse the Masinloc project;

WHEREAS, the Masinloc Project will require coordination with, and/or approval of, various
government agencies including, but not limited to, the Department of Public Works and Highways,
National Economic and Development Authority, Department of Transportation and Communications,
and Department of Trade and Industry.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby declare:

SECTION 1. The Masinloc Project is hereby granted flagship status with its following eight (8)
major components, to wit:

a. The Masinloc Economic Industrial Park. At least 1,500 hectares of land will be developed
into an industrial area for light and medium-scale industries. This will also include:

Socialized and Industrial Housing Communities. 1,000 hectares of land will be developed
into sustainable communities for relocatees, migrant workers and others.

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b. The Masinloc International Transshipment Port. The Masinloc harbor will be developed into
an international transshipment port with modern port facilities capable of accommodating
container vessels and bulk carriers.

c. The Iba-Tarlac Tollway. A tollway will be constructed to connect the provinces of Zambales
and Tarlac, passing through the Zambales mountain range thus, providing much needed and
more direct access to the land-locked provinces of Central Luzon.

Clark Field Spur Road. A possible tollway connecting to Clark Field, Angeles City
will create a direct link to an International Airport and will serve Clark Field’s seaport
requirements.

Rail Line System. A possible cargo and passenger railway will be constructed alongside
the tollway with corresponding depot and multi-modal terminal stations at strategic
locations.

d. The Central Luzon Food Terminal Complex. The existing fishing wharf of Masinloc will be
converted into a modern food handling, storage and transportation facility including building
and operating the:

The Masinloc International Fishing Port

e. Ship Building Complex. This is a non-polluting “catalytic” heavy industry that will generate
substantial economic development in the area. This will include a Ship-Building Facility
capable of developing world-class sea vessels and a Ship Dry Docking Facility which can
handle dry-docking of international tankers/bulk carriers.

f. Resort Development. Development of: a. the three islands within Masinloc Bay into the
“Masinloc Three Islands Resort”, b. other coastline resorts, and c. a mountain resort at
Mt. Tapulao, the highest peak in Central Luzon.

g. Telecommunication Tower. This will involve developing the peak of Mt. Tapulao as a site for
a telecommunication tower to improve Central Luzon’s telecommunication infrastructure.

h. 100 MW Power Plant. An estimated 100MW additional power plant will be required for all
the development included in the Masinloc Project as well as for nearby industrial areas.

SEC. 2. The Presidential Committee on Flagship Programs and Projects (“PCFPP”) is hereby
ordered to ensure the efficient and timely implementation of the Masinloc Project as an unsolicited
proposal of the consortium of private investors led by Smith Group Gexis, under R.A. No. 6957, as
amended by R.A. No. 7718, and the participation and cooperation of all government agencies and
instrumentalities for the purpose.

SEC. 3. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

DONE in the City of Manila, this 28 th day of SEPTEMBER, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety-Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). / Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

OFFICIAL GAZETTE

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 28

CREATING THE CABINET PROJECTS COORDINATING COMMITTEE AND PROJECTS
DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTING OFFICE FOR PAYATAS DEVELOPMENT

WHEREAS, Payatas is one of the largest urban poor enclaves in Metro Manila comprising
of 2,818 hectares of Quezon City with more than 311,502 in population, 80 per cent of which are
classified as urban poor;

WHEREAS, in recognition of the priority need to develop Payatas and raise the quality of life
of the population in the area, there is need to accelerate the economic and social development of the
area;

WHEREAS, a Development Framework Plan, Payatas 2000 was formulated to prescribe priority
plans, programs and projects for the area under a Presidential Task Force for Payatas Development
2000;

WHEREAS, long-term development projects are necessary to specifically address the following:
the effective delivery of basic services; peace and order; sanitation and environmental management
including the closure of the Payatas dumpsite and the installation of a waste disposal facility; and, the
generation of livelihood and employment towards the acceleration of the commercial and industrial
development of Payatas;

WHEREAS, there is now need for immediate implementation of these projects in order that
benefits could be enjoyed by the Payatas population.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the Powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SEC. 1. Creation of the Cabinet Projects Coordinating Committee. There is hereby created the
Cabinet Projects Coordinating Committee (CPCC), a cabinet level coordination and monitoring body
which shall oversee the project development in Payatas area. Specifically, it is tasked to:

a) Approve projects for recommendation to the President for implementation under the
approved Payatas Development Plan and Program;

b) Supervise progress of projects implementation and to prescribe corrective measures if
necessary;

c) Approve the budget program and funding allocation for the projects;

d) Coordinate the participation and inputs of the various participating agencies of the cabinet
and other offices and agencies of the national government.

SEC. 2. Composition. The CPCC shall be chaired by the Chairman of the Flagship Projects
Committee of the National Government with the Chairman of the Metropolitan Manila Development
Authority as Co-Chairman and with the following as Members:

a) The Secretary of Interior and Local Government;

b) The Secretary of Social Welfare and Development

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

c) The Secretary of Public Works and Highways;

d) The Secretary of Budget and Management;

e) The Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources;

f ) The Secretary of Health;

g) The Chairman of Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council

As the President may direct or recommended by the CPCC, other offices and agencies may be
represented in the said body or invited to join in its deliberations.

SEC. 3. The Project Management Executive Officer. The Mayor of Quezon City is hereby
designated as the Project Management Executive Officer (PMEO) to assume overall management
responsibilities in the execution of the projects covered under the approved program for
implementation. The PMEO shall sit as Ex-Officio Member of the Cabinet Projects Coordinating
Committee. Accordingly, the PMEO is specifically tasked:

a) To prepare the detailed program of implementation of the various projects approved for
implementation;

b) To prepare the detailed budget and funding program for the projects and for the operating
requirements of the project management office;

c) To constitute the project management staff to be made up of detailed personnel from the
participating national government offices, from the Quezon City Government, as well as
those who may be hired for the purpose.

d) To report to the President and the Cabinet Projects Coordinating Committee on the progress
of implementation of the projects.

SEC. 4. Creation of the Payatas Development Projects Implementing Office. There is hereby
created the Payatas Development Projects Implementing Office (PDPIO) which shall be under the
direct control and supervision of the PMEO.

SEC. 5. Duties and Responsibilities of the Payatas Development Projects Implementing Office. The

PDPIO, which shall hold office in Quezon City, shall be responsible in the implementation of projects
approved under the Payatas Development Framework. Specifically, it shall perform the following:

a) To undertake the projects development feasibility studies and plans for the implementation of
various projects identified under the Payatas Framework Development Plan;

b) To prepare the budgetary program and execution action programs for the implementation of
the projects;

c) To coordinate, in the course of project implementation, with various national agencies with
respect to the various components of the projects falling under the jurisdictions of such
agencies;

d) To undertake the necessary field operations and execution programs and schedules to
accelerate the projects implementation and to monitor the progress of the same;

e) To serve as Secretariat for the CPCC;

f) To undertake other duties and responsibilities as may be directed by the CPCC and the
PMEO for Payatas Development.

For this purpose, the PDPIO may institute the appropriate operating and implementing units or
task forces as may be necessary for successful project implementation.

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SEC. 6. Relationship with the Department of Interior and Local Government. The Department
of Interior and Local Government is hereby charged with operational and coordinative supervision
over the PDPIO and to assist the same in expediting linkages with the various participating national
agencies.

SEC. 7. Funding. The Secretary of Budget and Management shall identify the funding sources
from the current FY 1998 and the proposed FY 1999 Budget programs to support the implementation
of the following:

a. Funding for FY 1999 projects as may be approved by the President upon recommendation of
the CPCC; and

b. The initial operation of the PDPIO in FY 1998 and its full year operations in FY 1999.

Thereafter, future funding requirements shall be provided in the General Appropriation Act.

SEC. 8. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

Done in the City of Manila, this 30th day of September, in the Year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 29

MANDATING THE STREAMLINING OF THE NATIONAL TOBACCO ADMINISTRATION

WHEREAS, there is a need for the National Tobacco Administration (NTA) to adjust and
strengthen its operations to enable the agency to effectively serve its mandate, address major and
pressing concerns to meet the challenges in local tobacco industry as well as respond to the growing
needs of international trade;

WHEREAS, Section 29, Chapter V, Book V of Executive Order No. 292 (The Administrative
Code of 1987) authorizes an agency to reduce its staff whenever it becomes necessary because of lack of
funds due to the change in the scope or nature of an agency’s program or as a result of reorganization;

WHEREAS, under Section 78 of the General Provisions of Republic Act No. 8522 (General
Appropriations Act for FY 1998), the President may direct changes in the organization and key
positions in any department, bureau or agency;

WHEREAS, as a consequence of financial constraints as well as to enable the agency to
perform better and upon recommendation of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), a
streamlining plan for NTA has been approved.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH E. ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the Philippines, by
virtue of the powers vested upon me by law, do hereby order the streamlining of the NTA:

Section 1. Principles. The streamlining should adhere to the following principles:

The streamlining shall be taken within the overall context of promoting the development
of the tobacco industry. It should address the current needs of the agency and support its
strategic thrusts. This will include the review of all its operations with a set of criteria for
measuring programs, projects and services to attain the agency’s visions and plans; and

Attain optimum efficiency in the allocation of resources especially for priority programs,
projects and services by minimizing organizational levels, reducing span of control,
combining common functions, avoiding duplication and maximizing resource utilization,
but with minimum disruption to operations.

Sec. 2. Guidelines for Refocusing of Operations. To give due consideration to the opportunities
and challenges of the industry, the NTA shall refocus its operations with a set of guidelines:

Review the agency’s operations with a set of criteria for measuring programs and projects to
attain the agency’s visions and plans. This will include an organizational design as set forth
below:

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a) Preliminary analysis - to include data collection of the agency’s thrusts and strategies,
nature of individual unit’s work, major work flows and elements of each as well as
current problems and concerns.

b) Strategic organizational design - to include functional groupings and strategic linking at
top levels.

c) Operational organizational design - to include groupings at lower levels of the
organization including functional job descriptions.

2. Realign departmental operations, modify its structure to come up with more responsive,
effective and efficient agency.

3. The number of positions in the new staffing pattern shall not exceed four hundred (400).
However, the revised organizational structure and staffing shall be subject to approval by the
DBM. In the event that the agency fails to submit its proposal for the revised Organization
Structure and Staffing Pattern (OSSP), the DBM shall issue the final OSSP for immediate
implementation by the NTA, one (1) month after the issuance of this Executive Order.

4. Establish the most appropriate staffing and skill levels for all units and recommend
assignment of personnel to specific positions. This will include reclassification of certain
positions, finalization of staffing complement and the present work load factor.

5. An early retirement incentive package (ERIP) shall be provided to those who opt to retire
voluntarily and those whose positions will be phased out or closed as a result of the
streamlining procedure. The ERIP shall be over and above the benefits that they may receive
from PAG-IBIG and refund from GSIS premiums.

Sec. 3. Coverage. This Executive Order shall cover all regular employees of the NTA who have
rendered at least one year of continuous service to the agency. Employees, however, may opt to avail of
any existing GSIS retirement laws. The number of years in service for qualified retirees under its laws
shall be certified by the GSIS.

Sec. 4. Transitory Provisions. The following provisions shall serve to guide implementation in the
interim period:

Incumbent officials and employees of the NTA shall continue to exercise their respective
functions, duties and responsibilities with corresponding benefits and privileges, unless and
until otherwise ordered by the Administrator.

2. Employees who may opt to reject assignments or appointments in the new/realigned positions
shall receive retirement benefits which they may be entitled to receive under existing laws.
Otherwise, they may be paid, pursuant to Republic Act No. 6656 (An Act to Protect
the Security of Tenure of Civil Service Officers and Employees in the Implementation of
Government Reorganization), the equivalent of one (1) month salary for every year of service,
computed on the basis of the highest salary received.

Sec. 5. Funding. The national government shall provide funding assistance to NTA for the purpose
of the ERIP which shall be taken from the Miscellaneous Personnel Benefit Fund under Republic Act
No. 8522. To achieve proper programming of fund, the release of the financial assistance shall be on a
reimbursement scheme and only after the DBM has approved NTA’s restructuring.

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

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Sec. 6. Reportorial Requirements and Timetable. In fulfillment of the above provisions, the NTA
shall submit its compliance report to the President through the DBM within sixty (60) days from the
date of effectivity of the Executive Order.

Sec. 7. Effectivity. This Executive Order shall take effect one (1) day after its publication in a
newspaper of national circulation.

Done in the City of Manila, this 30 th day of SEPTEMBER, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
hundred and ninety-eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

OFFICIAL GAZETTE

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 30

RATIONALIZING THE INCREASE FOR ANTI-HIJACKING AND ANTI-TERRORISM
COMPONENT (NACAHT SHARE- ASF) FROM THE TERMINAL FEES COLLECTED
PURSUANT TO LETTER OF INSTRUCTIONS NO. 414-A AND EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 69

WHEREAS, in order to improve efficiency of the National Action Committee on Anti-Hijacking
and Anti-Terrorism (NACAHT), to secure adequate measures aimed at handling all incidents of
hijacking and all other offensive and terroristic activities, and to ensure the safe and continuous
operation of the civil aviation and airline industry operations, sufficient operational and logistical funds
thereto must be provided through an increase in the aviation security fee on departing international
and domestic passengers;

WHEREAS, there is a need for increased vigilance and airport security, thus to operationalize its
mandate, NACAHT must upgrade its manpower skills, revitalize its technical capability and modernize
its logistical resources and special weapons system;

WHEREAS, the Anti -Hi jacking and Anti-Terrorism component was not proportionately
increased when the terminal fee was increased to P500.00;

WHEREAS, there is a need to restore the original intended percentage for NACAHT to ensure its
readiness in every given situation;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SEC. 1. The Anti-Hijacking and Anti-Terrorism share being collected from every departing
international passenger under Executive Order No. 69 dated 21 November 1986, is hereby increased
from THIRTY PESOS (P30.00) to SIXTY PESOS (P60.00).

SEC. 2. The Anti-Hijacking and Anti-Terrorism share being collected from every departing
domestic passenger under LOI No. 414-A, 17 June 1976, is hereby increased from THREE
PESOS (P3.00) to FIFTEEN PESOS (P15.00)

SEC. 3. All laws, orders, issuances and rules and regulations or parts thereof inconsistently with
this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

SEC. 4. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

Done in the City of Manila, this 30th day of September, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety eight.

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). / Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

OFFICIAL GAZETTE

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 31

AMENDING SECTIONS 1 AND 3 OF EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 103, SERIES OF 1993

WHEREAS, Section 4(a) of RA 7227, authorizes the Bases Conversion Development Authority
(BCDA) to own, hold and/or administer the military reservation of John Hay Air Station in Baguio
City and Wallace Air Station in Poro Point, San Fernando, La Union;

WHEREAS, Executive Order No. 103 dated 29 June 1993 ordered the creation of the John Hay
Development Corporation (JHDC) as the implementing arm of BCDA for the development of John
Hay;

WHEREAS, there is a need to provide adequate private sector representation in the Board of
Directors of JPDC to provide participation of the communities affected by the programs of JPDC;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Section 1, Paragraph 1 and Section 3, Paragraph 1 of E.O. No. 103, s. of 1993, are
hereby respectively amended as follows:

“Section 1. Creation of John Hay Poro Point Development Corporation - A body corporate to
be known as the John Hay Poro Point Development Corporation (JPDC) is hereby authorized to
be formed as the operating and implementing arm of the BCDA to manage the John Hay Special
Economic Zone, formerly known as the Camp John Hay and Poro Point Special Economic and
Freeport Zone, formerly known as Wallace Air Station and its contiguous areas.

JHDC shall hereinafter be referred to as JPDC.”

“Section 3. Board of Directors - The powers of the JPDC shall be vested in and exercised by
a Board of Directors (Board) which shall be composed of fifteen (15) members; provided that the
composition of the JPDC Board shall be subject to the provisions of Section 16 of RA 7227.”

SECTION 2. All orders, rules and regulations, or parts thereof, which are inconsistent with this
Executive Order are hereby repealed, amended or modified accordingly.

SECTION 3. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

DONE in the City of Manila, this 7 th day of OCTOBER, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety-Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). / Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

OFFICIAL GAZETTE

ESTRADA | Volume 4

MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 32

CREATING A TASK FORCE TO INVESTIGATE AND PROSECUTE SUGAR SMUGGLING

WHEREAS, the economic recovery of the country depends to a great extent upon the development
of basic agricultural products;

WHEREAS, sugar production in the Philippines had been severely affected by the long dry spell
because of the “El Nino” resulting to a bad harvest by sugar farmers and hence the scarcity of the
commodity in the domestic market;

WHEREAS, there have been several verified reported incidents of sugar smuggling in various
parts of the country depriving the government of duties and taxes and adversely affecting the price of
sugar;

WHEREAS, the entry to the country of smuggled sugar causes the destabilization of the price of
sugar to the disadvantage of the local sugar planters and manufacturers;

WHEREAS, there is an urgent need to organize a task force that will prevent sugar smuggling in
the country;

WHEREAS, the Administrative Code of 1987 empowers the President with the continuing
authority to reorganize the Office of the President;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Organization - There is hereby created a Task Force on Sugar Smuggling under the
Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC).

SECTION 2. Composition - The Task Force shall be composed of selected members/operatives
from law enforcement agencies and representatives from other government agencies. It shall be headed
by a Chief, Task Force to be designated by the Chairman of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime
Commission (PAOCC). The PAOCC shall provide technical and administrative support staff to the
Task Force.

SECTION 3. Advisory Council - There is hereby created an Advisory Council on Sugar
Smuggling to be composed of the following:

1. Administrator of the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) - Chairman

2. Commissioner, Economic Intelligence and Investigation Bureau (EIIB) - Vice Chairman

3. Four (4) representatives from the Sugar Planters/Federation - Member

4. Two (2) representatives from the PAOCC - Member

The technical and administrative support staff of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime
Commission (PAOCC) and the technical and administrative staff of the Sugar Regulatory
Administration (SRA) shall serve as the Secretariat of the Advisory Council.

SECTION 4. Functions of the Advisory Council - The Advisory Council shall perform the
following functions:

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1 . Provide technical information on local and foreign shipments of sugar;

2. Recommend policies, programs, activities and composition of the Task Force;

3. Provide equipment and logistics of the Secretariat and the Task Force;

4. Recommend to the Chairman of the PAOCC the system of rewards and incentives for
informants; and

5. Perform other functions as may be directed by the Chairman of the PAOCC.

SECTION 5. Powers and Functions - The Task Force on Sugar Smuggling shall have the
following powers and functions:

a. Conduct intelligence and counter-intelligence operations to identify persons or groups
involved in the smuggling of sugar;

b. Issue warrant and detention orders on the smuggled sugar as well as on the vessel used in the
smuggling of sugar;

c. Cause or direct the arrest and investigation of persons involved in sugar smuggling;

d. Refer the case at hand, as the Task Force may deem proper and necessary to the Department
of Justice and/or other appropriate law enforcement agencies for investigation or prosecution;

e. Follow-up the progress of cases taken cognizance of by the Task Force on Sugar Smuggling;

f. Select and recruit from the Economic Intelligence and Investigation Bureau (EIIB), Bureau of
Customs (BOC), Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), Philippine Coast Guard, PNP, NBI, AFP
and other law enforcement agencies for detail to the Task Force subject to the conformity of
the agency concerned;

g. Enlist the assistance of any government agency or office including government corporation in
the drive against sugar smuggling; and

h. Grant monetary rewards or incentives to informants giving vital information leading to the
apprehension of persons involved in sugar smuggling.

The provisions of Memorandum Order No. 225 with respect to the delineation of functions
among government agencies shall not apply to the operations of the Task Force on Sugar Smuggling.

SECTION 6. Supervision and Control - The Task Force on Sugar Smuggling shall be under the
supervision and control of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission.

SECTION 7. Operating Guidelines - The Chairman of Presidential Anti-Organized Crime
Commission (PAOCC) may promulgate operating guidelines as maybe necessary to implement this
Executive Order in consultation with the Advisory Council.

SECTION 8. Disposition of Confiscated Sugar - The sugar confiscated by the government from
sugar smuggling shall be held in trust by the National Food Authority (NFA) to be sold to the public.
The proceeds of the sale shall be remitted to the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission
(PAOCC) to be used in the payment of rewards or incentives to informants and operatives and for the
operations of the Task Force.

SECTION 9. Effectivitv - This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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Done in the City of Manila, this 26 th day of October, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 33
CREATING A PRESIDENTIAL COMMITTEE TO STUDY
AND TAKE CHARGE OF THE MODERNIZATION AND DEVELOPMENT
OF VARIOUS PENAL INSTITUTIONS IN THE COUNTRY

WHEREAS, the Philippine Government has long exerted efforts to uplift the living conditions
and the welfare of the prisoners serving sentence in various penal institutions in the country;

WHEREAS, the problems raised in the past with respect to these penal institutions have dealt
mainly on the lack of manageable and efficient systems for the confinement and rehabilitation of
prisoners, as exhibited in the long-recognized problems of congestion, lack of available penal and
rehabilitative institutions, and an inability to segregate various type of offenders;

WHEREAS, as early as 1972, legislation had already been enacted to resolve these problems,
but despite said legislation and succeeding efforts of the Philippine Government, the above-
mentioned problems have continued to plague the country’s penal system, a situation which calls for
the modernization and development of the various penal institutions in the country, particularly the
National Penitentiary located at Muntinlupa;

WHEREAS, in consonance with the modernization and development efforts of the present
government, there is a need to restudy the continued stay of the National penitentiary at Muntinlupa,
with the possibility of disposing such property;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested in me by the Constitution, do hereby create a Presidential Committee to be given
the primary responsibility of studying and taking measures for the modernization and development of
the various penal institutions in the country. The Committee shall have the following members:

1. Executive Secretary Chairman

2. Secretary of Justice Vice-Chairman

3. Secretary of Budget and Management Member

4. Secretary of Public Works and Highways Member

5. Chairman, Public Estates Authority Member

The Committee shall coordinate with the Chairman of the Committee on Ways and Means of the
House of Representatives, and with the Chairman of the Committee on Appropriations of the same
chamber, with the former tasked to identify the necessary funds to be provided in the annual budget,
among other source, in connection with the planned modernization and development.

The Committee shall brief the President regarding possible recommendations on the continued
stay of the national penitentiary at Muntinlupa. The probability of transferring said penal institution,
or its disposal, should be taken into consideration.

The Committee may call upon any department, bureau, office, agency or instrumentalities on the
Government for such assistance as it may need in the performance of its functions.

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The Committee shall submit to the President a periodic report of its activities.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

President of the Philippines

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

MESSAGES OF THE PRESIDENT

ESTRADA | Volume 4

OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
OF THE PHILIPPINES
malacaNang

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 34

PROVIDING FOR THE RESTRUCTURING OF THE NATIONAL COMPUTER CENTER

WHEREAS, there is a need to coordinate, integrate, modify and modernize the information
infrastructure policies, programs and projects of the Philippines;

WHEREAS, there is a need for a central executive agency that will oversee the coordination and
integration of government policies, programs and projects, in order to enhance the planning and use of
computer resources with high quality and cost efficiency as a major consideration;

WHEREAS, there is a need to fast-track and modify the implementation of information
infrastructure policies, programs and projects, where these are slow and ineffective.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue of
the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

Section 1. Declaration of Policy . It is hereby declared the policy of the Government, in furtherance

of national development, to create the appropriate environment for, and rationalize the use and

application of, information technology to attain the following objectives:

(a) To optimize the use of information technology in meeting the socio-economic development
needs and in addressing national concerns such as poverty, crime, education, health and
environment;

(b) To ensure the protection of mission-critical and highly secure public and private sector data
from hostile attacks that could endanger peace and order, national security and the operation
of public utilities;

(c) To ensure the protection of privacy rights in consideration of the right to information and the
duty to enforce laws;

(d) To ensure that the procurement of computer hardware and software will safeguard the public
interest in terms of optimum serviceability, quality, benefits and economy;

(e) To ensure compatibility of all government hardware and software;

(f) To provide the mechanisms for the effective evaluation of information technologies before
and during their actual use in government applications;

(g) To encourage the development of government-wide information systems and networks to
provide data and information needed for development planning and decision-making;

(h) To optimize the use of information technology in electronic governance, thus achieving
greater effectiveness, efficiency, accessibility, and accountability in public service;

(i) To ensure that the use of information technology will support and enhance national
competitiveness in the global arena;

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(j) To maximize the potential of information technology in increasing national productivity and
creating national wealth;

(k) To support the formation and sustainability of knowledge-based industries, thus creating new
local employment opportunities and reducing overseas employment;

(l) To promote the development, retention and optimum utilization of qualified information
technology human resources.”

Section 2. Functions and Powers of the National Computer Center (NCC). The NCC shall remain

as an executive agency under the Office of the President and shall have the following functions

and powers:

(a) It shall be the implementing arm of all government computerization and electronic
networking policies, programs and projects, and all other IT-related activities of government;

(b) It shall devise and implement an integrated government computerization program
coordinating all existing government entities, taking into account all their existing plans,
programs, proposals, software and hardware inventory, installed systems and projects;

(d) It shall review and approve proposed Information Systems Plans (ISPs) of National
Government Agencies (NGAs), State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), Government
Owned and Controlled Corporations (GOCCs), and Government Financial Institutions
(GFIs), determine their funding requirements and endorse such funding requirements to the
Department of Budget and Management (DBM) or the BOT Center;

(e) It shall audit the computer hardware and software inventory of all government entities to
make sure that computer systems are used to its full potential;

(f) It shall facilitate the transfer and re-assignment of all computer hardware and software that
are not being used by government entities;

(g) It shall function as a backup computing facility in the event that the computer systems of
other government entities become inoperable;

(h) It shall conduct periodic monitoring and evaluation of existing ISPs, and determine
appropriate upgrades and modifications as necessary;

(i) It shall facilitate the requests and service the needs of local government units (LGUs), the
legislative and judicial branches, as well as the constitutional commissions, if and when these
independent entities decide to become part of government computerization and electronic
networking programs, and projects;

(j) It shall assist other government information technology installations in the supervision,
regulation or rationalization of their services, and for this purpose may conduct management
audits whenever necessary;

(k) It shall promote the use of electronic commerce in government-to-government and
government-to-private transactions;

(l) It shall promote IT exports and investments, promote public and private sector cooperation,
implement innovative IT-related activities, and promote public access to information technologies;

(m) It shall organize and manage a Strategic Data Center (SDC) that shall service the Executive
Information System (EIS) and the Decision Support System (DSS) needs of the Office of the
President, and create a national database on IT as part of the national statistical system;

(n) It shall represent NGAs, SUCs, GOCCs and GFIs in IT-related negotiations and provide them
bid management;

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(o) It can enlist the assistance of any Department, Bureau, Office, Agency or instrumentality of
government; including GOCCs and GFIs in the furtherance of its functions;

(p) Perform such other functions as may be necessary to implement the provisions of this
Executive Order.

Section 3. IT Action Agenda . The NCC shall be implementing and coordinating agency of the IT
Action Agenda for the 21stCentury (IT21) and its successor plans.

The NCC shall recommend changes and/or improvements in IT21, through the National
Information Technology Council (NITC).

The NCC shall provide Secretariat services to the NITC.

Section 4. Director General . The management of the NCC shall be vested in a Director General
who shall be the chief executive officer thereof and who shall be appointed by the President of
the Philippines. The Director General of the NCC shall have the equivalent rank of a cabinet
Undersecretary, and shall have the following powers, functions and duties:

(a) Direct and manage the affairs of the NCC, including the National Computer Institute (NCI)
and the Philippine Software Development Institute (PSDI);

(b) Implement policies, programs and projects as may be adopted pursuant to the provisions of
this Executive Order;

(d) Protect and preserve the secrecy and security of NCC data holdings;

(e) Appoint employees of the NCC in accordance with the approved budget and staffing pattern
thereof and discipline or remove them in accordance with existing laws;

(f) Disburse, administer and obligate appropriations of the NCC;

(g) Coordinate with appropriate law enforcement agencies the investigation and prosecution of
Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) violators and computer-related crime offenders;

(h) Perform such other functions as may be necessary to implement the objectives of this
Executive Order.”

Section 5. All issuances, orders, rules and regulations or parts thereof which are inconsistent with
any of the provisions of this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

Section 6. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

Done in the City of Manila, this 26 th day of OCT. 1998.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
OF THE PHILIPPINES
MALACANANG

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 35

DIRECTING THE NATIONAL COMPUTER CENTER (NCC) TO DESIGN AND BUILD
AN INTEGRATED GOVERNMENT INFORMATION INFRASTRUCTURE (GII)

WHEREAS, there is a need to coordinate, integrate, modify, modernize and speed-up all the
Information Technology (IT) programs and projects of the Philippines;

WHEREAS, there is a need for a central body that will oversee the coordination, integration and
implementation of government IT programs and projects in order to enhance the planning and use of
computer resources with high quality and cost efficiency as major considerations;

WHEREAS, there is a pressing need to have an integrated government computerization program
coordinating all existing government entities;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue of
the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order the NCC to:

Section 1. Design and build an integrated government information infrastructure (GII);

Section 2. Integrate all existing computer systems of government entities to make them compatible
with the GII;

Section 3. Connect all government entities to the GIL

Section 4. All orders, directories, issuances, resolutions, rules or regulations or parts thereof
inconsistent with the provisions of this executive order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

Section 5. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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Done in the City of MLA, this 26 th day of OCTOBER, 1998

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By authority of the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO ZAMORA
Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 36

AMENDING THE FIRST SENTENCE OF SECTION 2.3 OF EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 29,
MANDATING THE STREAMLINING OF THE NATIONAL TOBACCO ADMINISTRATION

WHEREAS, given the scope of the mandate of the National Tobacco Administration (NTA) and
its responsibilities;

WHEREAS, the NTA is the sole government agency which is tasked to oversee and promote the
tobacco industry in the Philippines;

WHEREAS, the first mandate of the NTA, under its Charter, is “to improve the economic and
living conditions and raise the quality of life of the tobacco farmers, including those who depend on
the industry for their LIVELIHOOD”;

WHEREAS, the NTA is tasked to pursue aggressively and relentlessly its mandate;

WHEREAS, the NTA needs all the expertise and supervision of knowledgeable and competent
field workers to teach/guide the tobacco farmers in the proper implementation of the prescribed
tobacco technology for quality production.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested upon me by law, do hereby amend Section 2.3 of Executive
Order No. 29, to read, as follows:

Section 1 The number of positions in the new staffing pattern shall not exceed seven hundred
fifty (750). However, the revised organizational structure and staffing shall be subject
to approval by the DBM. In the event that the Agency fails to submit its proposal for
the revised Organization Structure and Staffing Pattern (OSSP), the DBM shall issue
the final OSSP for immediate implementation by the NTA, one (1) month after the
issuance of this Executive Order.

Section 2. Effectivity. This Executive Order shall take effect one (1) day after its publication in a
newspaper of national circulation.

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Done in the City of Manila, this 27 th day of OCTOBER, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety-eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). / Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
OF THE PHILIPPINES
MALACANANG

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 37

DIRECTING THE NATIONAL COMPUTER CENTER (NCC) TO CONDUCT
AND MANAGE THE PRE-QUALIFICATION, BIDS AND AWARDS OF
ALL GOVERNMENT-IT RELATED PROJECTS

WHEREAS, there is a pressing need to have an integrated government computerization program
coordinating all existing government entities;

WHEREAS, there is a need to coordinate, integrate, modify, modernize and speed-up all the
Information Technology (IT) programs and projects of the Philippines;

WHEREAS, there is a need for a central body that will oversee the coordination, integration, and
implementation of government IT programs and projects in order to enhance the planning and use of
computer resources with high quality and cost efficiency as major considerations.

WHEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue of the
powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

Section 1. All National Government Agencies (NGAs), Local Government Units (LGUs),
State Colleges and Universities (SUCs), Government Financial Institutions (GFIs) and Government
Owned and Controlled Corporations (GOCCs) to integrate their IT programs and projects with the
government information infrastructure (GII) spearheaded by the NCC;

Section 2. All NGAs, LGUs, SUC, GFIs and GOCCs to submit all their existing and proposed
Information Systems Plans (ISPs) projects including hardware, software and system inventories to the
NCC;

Section 3. The NCC to conduct and manage all IT-related pre-qualification, bid and award
functions of all existing government entities in order to ensure systems efficiency, software/hardware
compatibility, economies of scale and technical backup capabilities;

Section 4. All orders, directories, issuances, resolutions, rules or regulations or parts thereof
inconsistent with the provisions of this executive order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

Section 5. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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Done in the City of MLA, this 26 th day of OCTOBER, 1998

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By authority of the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO ZAMORA
Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 38

DIRECTING THE AUDIT OF ASSESSMENTS, REVENUES AND RECEIPTS
OF THE BUREAU OF INTERNAL REVENUE

WHEREAS, public office is a public trust and public officers shall at all times be accountable to
the people.

WHEREAS, there is an urgent need to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of tax collections
in order to support the budget through an audit of tax assessment performance, the records of which
constitute public records open for inspection upon the order of the President in accordance with
R.A. 8474:

WHEREAS, while the audit function is vested by the Constitution in the Commission on Audit
full implementation has yet to be made thereon;

WHEREAS, it is a highly desirable public policy to conduct an assessments and revenue audit of
the Bureau of Internal Revenue;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested in me by Article VII Section 1 of the Constitution and the laws, do hereby order:

Section 1 . Effective immediately, the Department of Finance and the Bureau of Internal Revenue
shall adopt measures and general audit procedures, in coordination with the Commission on Audit,
to facilitate the conduct of audit of assessments, revenues, and receipts, consistent with the following
guidelines/parameters:

The audit and examination of COA, to be conducted on final tax assessments, shall be a
performance audit, and on post-audit basis. Audit of controverted assessments shall await
final determination of the appropriate authority.

Except in cases of fraud and patent abuse of discretion, no duplication of assessment shall
be made on the taxpayer: provided, that prior report to and concurrence thereon is obtained
from the Commissioner of Internal Revenue, and that only the BIR shall make contact with
the taxpayer upon prior clearance of the Commissioner of Internal Revenue.

(c) Confidentiality of tax information and records shall be observed, and no COA auditor shall
divulge to any person, in any manner than as may be allowed by law, information regarding
the business, income, estate, secrets, operations, style of work, apparatus, strategies, or other
sensitive and confidential data acquired by said COA auditor in the performance of duties.

(d) COA auditors shall not contact any BIR examiner whose assessment or work is to be audited
or is undergoing audit. No audit observation memorandum or notice of charge shall be issued,
and subject to a preliminary discussion or clarification of initial audit findings, only a final
audit report shall be made to the Commissioner of Internal Revenue or his duly designated
subordinate representative(s).

(e) In addition to the Commissioner on Internal Revenue, only the following shall, on strictly
confidential basis, be provided the final audit report after approval by the Commission

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on Audit: the Secretary of Finance, the COA Chair and Commissioners, the Office of the
President, and Congress, unless ordered by the proper court or the President of the Philippines.

(f) Audit shall be conducted based on taxpayer records in the custody of BIR or other
government offices.

(g) Except for conformity letters and verifications of actual tax payments as required by generally
accepted auditing standards, auditors’ communications with, or visiting places of business or
examining books of accounts or records of, taxpayers is prohibited.

Section 3. This Executive Order takes effect immediately. All rules, regulations, or other
administrative issuances inconsistent herewith are hereby superseded, repealed or modified accordingly.

Section 4. Violations of these guidelines, or the rules and procedures adopted pursuant hereto,
shall be dealt with in accordance with law.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 30th day of October, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety-Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 39

RECONSTITUTING THE PROJECT BOARD AND EXTENDING THE TERM
OF THE SOSKSARGEN AREA DEVELOPMENT PROJECT OFFICE

WHEREAS, the SOSKSARGEN AREA DEVELOPMENT PROJECT OFFICE has achieved
significant strides in integrating the crucial development initiatives of the national government since its
inception in August 1991;

WHEREAS, of the major infrastructure components of the project only the airport, fishport,
seaport and, the roads are operational, and there is a need for more time to finish critical infrastructure
projects in the area;

WHEREAS, the Presidential Committee on Flagship Programs & Projects (Flagship Committee)
has been mandated by virtue of Administrative Order No. 109 to prioritize and monitor the
implementation of vital infrastructure programs of the Government;

WHEREAS, the Mindanao Railway System has been identified as a “flagship project”, and
General Santos City is envisioned to be a major station in the System; and

WHEREAS, the Southern Philippines Development Authority which has been attached to
the Flagship Committee by virtue of Executive Order No. 13, has been tapped as a vehicle for the
implementation of development projects in Mindanao;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. The provision on the ADP Office term is hereby amended to read as follows:

“Sec. 7. ADP Office Term . The term of the ADP Office is hereby extended to December 31,
2002 .”

SECTION 2. The provision on the establishment of the South Cotabato/Sarangani/General
Santos City - Area Development Project Office in Section 1 of Executive Order No. 474 series of 1991,
as amended, is hereby amended to read as follows:

“Sec. 1 SOSKSARGEN Area Development Project Office.

There is hereby established the South Cotabato/Sultan Kudarat/Sarangani/General Santos City -
Area Development Project Office, hereinafter referred to as the ADP Office as a Special Project
under the Presidential Committee on Flagship Programs and Projects for integrating, coordinating,
supervising, directing, and formulating policies and guidelines for the implementation of major
undertakings in SOSKSARGEN. The ADP Office shall be composed of a Project Board and a
Project Management Unit (PMU) which shall hold office in General Santos City.”

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SECTION 3. The provision on the composition of the Project Board under Section 2 of Executive
Order No. 474 series of 1991, as amended, is hereby amended to read as follows:

“Sec. 2. Project Board and Project Management Unit , (a) The Project Board, hereinafter
referred to as the Board, shall be composed of the following:

a. Presidential Adviser on Economic Affairs

b. The Regional Director, National Economic and Development Authority

c. The Provincial Governor of South Cotabato

d. The Provincial Governor of Sarangani

e. The Mayor of General Santos City

The Provincial Governor of Sultan Kudarat

g. Representatives from Government Agencies Involved in the Project
(DA, DTI, DILG, DOTC, DPWH, DENR, DOH, DECS)

h. One representative each of the Non-Government Organizations of
South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani Province and
General Santos City

i. One representative each of the Chamber of Commerce or Business
Community of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani Province
and General Santos City

j The Administrator, Southern Philippines Development Authority

Chairman

Vice Chairman

Member

SECTION 4. The provision on project coordination at the national level under Section 3 of
Executive Order No. 474, s. of 1991, is hereby amended to read as follows:

“Sec. 3. Coordination. The project shall be coordinated at the following levels:

At the National Level : The Flagship Committee shall serve as oversight body for the project
and shall perform the following powers and functions:

Ensure that the development goals, policies and programs formulated by the Project
Board are properly coordinated with the overall goals, policies, and programs;

(b) Maintain liaison with central offices and as necessary, arrange the needed support for the
project from central agencies, including funding agencies;

(c) Monitor and conduct periodic review of the Project with respect to achievement of
targets, objectives, priorities, and goals, and facilitate expeditious implementation of the
Project; and,

Perform such other functions as may be provided by law.

SECTION 5. SEPARABILITY CLAUSE - If any provision of this Executive Order shall be
rendered invalid or unconstitutional, the other provisions not otherwise affected shall remain in full
force and effect.

SECTION 6. REPEALING CLAUSE - All laws, executive orders or issuances, or any parts thereof
which are inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

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SECTION 7. EFFECTIVITY CLAUSE - This Executive Order shall take effect fifteen (15) days
after its publication in at least one newspaper of general circulation.

DONE in the City of Manila, on this 4th day of November, in the year of our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety-Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of
Presidential Management Staff.

the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338], Manila:

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 39-A

STREAMLINING THE SOSKSARGEN AREA DEVELOPMENT PROJECT OFFICE,
STRENGTHENING ITS COORDINATIVE AND INTEGRATION MECHANISM,

AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the Philippines, by virtue of the
powers vested in me by law, do hereby order;

Section 1. Project Board. The composition of the Project Board under Section 2 of Executive
Order No. 331 is hereby reconstituted as follows:

Chairman Presidential Adviser on Economic Affairs and Chairman,

Presidential Committee on Flagship Programs and Projects
Vice-Chairman Regional Director of National Economic and Development Authority, Region XI

The members shall be composed of the following: Governor of the provinces of South Cotabato,
Sarangani, Sultan Kudarat, the Mayor of General Santos City, the Administrator of the Southern
Philippines Development Authority, representative of the Department of Public Works and Highways,
Department of Transportation and Communications, Department of Agriculture, Department of
Trade and Industry, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Interior and
Local Governments, one (1) representative from Non-Government Organization of SOSKSARGEN
Area, one (1) representative each of the Chamber of Commerce of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat,
Sarangani, and General Santos City, and the Project Director of the Project Management Unit (PMU),
who shall be appointed by Chairman of the Board.

Section 2. Powers of the Board. The powers and function of the Board under Section 2 of
Executive Order No. 331 are henceforth amended as follows:

a. Formulate policies and guidelines and establish development goals within the context of
the Regional Development Plan and the role of SOSKSARGEN in the Mindanao Development
Framework;

b. Provide general directions and formulate appropriate policies for the planned creation of the
General Santos City Development Authority;

c. Require all concerned government agencies, non-government organizations and private sector
groups to coordinate and submit their respective plans, programs, and accomplishments to the Project
Board through its secretariat office, the PMU, to ensure complementation of all development initiatives
in the area;

d. Advocate, supervise, facilitate, orchestrate and provide over-all direction in the planning,
timely implementation and monitoring of all project components and development activities;

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e. Pool existing resources and encourage the support and participation of government and non-
government institutions by creating task forces or appropriate bodies to expedite implementation of
major development projects;

f. Review and endorse to the Regional Development Council (RDC), Region XI, for approval
the multi-year and annual plans and investment of programs under the project;

g. Review and endorse, through the RDC, to the Department of Budget and Management
(DBM), the annual budget for the Project, including that for the operations of the ADP Office;

h. Review and approve the organization of the PMU;

i. Review and approve contracts;

j. Submit to the President, the RDC, the NEDA Board and the Congress annual progress reports
on the project and such other reports as may be required,

k. Formulate implementing rules and regulations pertaining to the internal operations of the
ADP Office; and

Perform such other functions as the President may direct.

Section 3. Project Management Unit. The Project Management Unit (PMU) shall serve as the
technical and administrative secretariat of the Board, and as such, undertake the day-to-day activities
of the ADP Office. It shall perform the following functions:

a. Provide technical support and assistance and coordinate with the City and Provincial Planning
and Development Offices, regional offices of the National Government Agencies, representatives of
financing institutions, non-government organizations, the private sector and other concerned entities
to facilitate the implementation of major infrastructure projects, as well as ensure the operation of the
completed flagship projects in SOSKSARGEN;

b. Prepare the groundwork for the establishment of the General Santos City Development
Authority;

c. Enter into contracts, through its Project Director, as may be necessary for the technical and
administrative operations of the ADP office subject to existing laws, rules and regulations;

d. Undertake periodic review and evaluation of projects and shall for the purpose, design and
operate a program implementation and project benefit monitoring and evaluation systems, and make
appropriate recommendations to the ADP Board;

e. Ensure implementation of plans and programs of concerned government agencies and
initiatives of non-government organizations and private-sector groups for the sustainable development
of the growth area.

Section 4. Coordination and Integration Mechanism. To promote harmonious working
relationship and maintain an effective coordination mechanism among development players in the
area, concerned government agencies and offices, such as but not limited to the Air Transportation
Office, Philippine Fisheries Development Authority, Philippine Ports Authority, Department of
Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Transportation and Communications, National
Telecommunications Commission, Department of Public Works and Highways, Department of
Trade and Industry, Department of Agriculture, Department of Agrarian Reform, and the Southern
Philippines Development Authority are hereby directed to closely coordinate with and submit to the
Project Board through its secretariat office, the PMU, their respective plans and programs as well as
their accomplishments on projects being implemented, monitored, supervised and managed by the
SOSKSARGEN Area Development Project Office to integrate and ensure complementation of all

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development initiatives. It is further provided that the said agencies are hereby instructed to attend and
actively participate in meetings/consultations and the like, that the ADP Board may initiate.

Section 5. Operational Requirements. The DBM shall allocate from the lump sum appropriations
of the General Appropriations Act that amount as may be appropriate and necessary for the operational
requirements of the ADP Office based on the work and financial program submitted by the Board and
as endorsed by the RDC. However, for the second semester of 1998 and the coming year, CY 1999, the
operational requirements of the ADP Office shall be sourced from the appropriations provided for such
office in the budget of the Department of Agriculture. The said funds are to be immediately transferred
to the ADPO and be exclusively used to accomplish the objectives specified in this Executive Order.

Section 6. Repealing Clause. All issuances or any parts thereof which are inconsistent herewith
are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

Section 7. Effectivity. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE, in the City of Manila, this 30 th day of November, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety-Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1
Presidential Management Staff.

338]. Manila:

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OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
OF THE PHILIPPINES
MALACANANG

MALACANANG RECORDS OFFICE

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 40

Based on the records available on file and in the possession of Malacanang Records Office,
Executive Order No. 40 of Presidential Issuances of Joseph Ejercito Estrada was certified by their office
as a reserved number and that no original copy of this issuance was forwarded and released to them.

Malacanang Records Office. (2015). / Memorandum : certification and official count of Presidential
Issuances]. Manila: Malacanang Records Office.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 41

REORGANIZING THE ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE OF THE MUNICIPAL
DEVELOPMENT FUND, CONSOLIDATING ITS FUNCTIONS IN THE DEPARTMENT OF

FINANCE AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

WHEREAS, the Constitution declares it a policy of the State to ensure the autonomy of local
governments;

WHEREAS, the 1991 Local Government Code provides for a more responsive and accountable
local government structure instituted through a system of decentralization whereby local government
units have been conferred more power, authority responsibilities, and resources;

WHEREAS, this system of decentralization has created a need for local government units to have
greater access to sources of funding for development projects;

WHEREAS, the present administrative structure of the Municipal Development Fund could be
improved to attain these ends;

NOW THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue of
the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order and direct:

SECTION 1. The Municipal Development Fund. As provided for in Presidential Decree
No. 1914, the Municipal Development Fund, hereafter referred to as MDF, is:

(a) a Revolving Fund which shall be made available to local governments (provinces, cities
and municipalities) as loans which shall be treated as trust funds and amortized by local
governments out of their general fund sources; and

(b) capitalized and funded by proceeds of foreign loans, assistance or grants made available
to local governments for specific purposes, project components and activities set forth in
international agreements, including amortizations (principal and interests) paid by local
governments.

SEC. 2. Reorganization. The MDF is hereby reorganized, functionally and structurally, in
accordance with the Organization Chart incorporated herein as an Annex hereof, and pursuant to the
provisions of this Executive Order.

The reorganized MDF will be an office under the Department of Finance and is hereby renamed
Municipal Development Fund Office, hereafter referred to as MDFO. It will integrate the existing
technical functions handled by the Central Projects Offices of the Department of Public Works and
Highways and other implementing government agencies and the financial functions of the Municipal
Development Fund under the Bureau of Local Government Finance-Department of Finance under one
office. The expanded functions will entail additional personnel complement, resources and funding.

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SEC. 3. Mandate. The MDFO shall continue to perform the following functions:

(a) as a source of credit finance in support of the decentralization of services from the
national to the local levels of government;

(b) promote the acceptability of borrowing as a means of financing a wide range of local
government investments;

(c) promote and assist local governments in the selection of well-justified and high-quality
investments in infrastructure projects and public facilities;

(d) encourage a cost-recovery approach to the provision of suitable public services through
the levy of appropriate levels of fees and users’ charges.

In addition, the MDF shall:

(e) perform loan and credit operations within the context of a financially-viable and stable
credit institution;

(f) provide credit finance and/or grants to FGUs for the development of sustainable socio-
economic development projects.

(g) provide technical assistance to FGUs to enhance their capacity to conduct project
identification and selection, loan proposal preparation, and project management and
monitoring;

(h) issue bond indebtedness and other forms of securities to help finance FGU projects; and

(i) develop a system for monitoring FGU creditworthiness and graduating creditworthy
FGUs to private sources of capital.

SEC. 4. The MDFO Policy Governing Board. The affairs and business of the MDFO shall be
directed, its properties managed and preserved, and its power exercised by an MDFO Policy Governing
Board to be composed of:

Secretary of Finance or his duly designated Undersecretary Chairman

Deputy Director General, National Economic and Development Authority,
or his representative Member

Undersecretary of Public Works and Flighways, or his representative Member

Undersecretary of the Budget and Management, or his representative Member

Undersecretary of the Interior and Focal Governments, or his representative Member

The representative of the Undersecretary members shall be of a rank not lower than Assistant
Secretary level.

The MDFO Executive Director shall act as an ex-officio member of the MDFO Policy Governing
Board.

SEC. 5. Powers, Duties and Authority. The Policy Governing Board shall have, among other
powers, the following duties and authority:

(a) to formulate policies necessary to effectively carry out the provisions of this Executive
Order.

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(b) to adopt, amend or change, the rules and regulations as may be necessary for the effective
operation of the MDFO in conformity with this Executive Order, existing laws, and
international agreements.

(c) to approve all MDFO loans, credits and grants and other credit accommodations and
may delegate such approving authority within the MDFO;

(d) to prescribe such terms and conditions to govern the granting of loans, credits and grants,
and other credit accommodations consistent with the provisions of this Executive Order
and international agreements;

(f) to create and establish a “Provident Fund” which shall consist of contributions made by
both the MDFO and its officers and employees to a common fund for the payment of
benefits to such officers and employees;

(g) to acquire and/or dispose supplies, property and equipment for the MDFO in accordance
with existing rules and procedures on procurement and disposal of supplies, property and
equipment; and

(h) to perform such other functions and powers as the President of the Philippines or
provisions of existing laws may require.

SEC. 6. The Board’s Staff. The Board shall have a staff Secretariat, and an Executive Committee
which shall meet upon the call of the Chairman or any two (2) of its members, whenever urgent
matters requiring Board action have to be acted upon prior to the next scheduled meeting.

SEC. 7. The Executive Director. The Chief Operating Officer of the MDFO shall be the Executive
Director who shall be appointed by the Policy Governing Board with the approval of the President of
the Philippines.

The Executive Director shall be assisted by Consultants and Advisers hired for specific
assignments.

The Board, by rules and regulations, shall determine the powers, functions and duties of the
Secretariat and the composition of the Executive Director’s staff.

SEC. 8. The Deputy Executive Directors. The Policy Governing Board shall appoint, upon the
recommendation of the Executive Director, a Deputy Executive Director for Operations, and a Deputy
Executive Director for Administration and Finance.

The Board, by rules and regulations, shall determine the powers, functions and duties of the
Deputy Executive Directors and the Divisions, Sections, Offices and Units under their respective
supervision.

SEC. 9. The Deputy Executive Director for Operations. The Deputy Executive Director for
Operations shall have supervision over:

(a) Account Management Division;

(b) Technical Operations Division;

(d) Financial Management Division.

SEC. 10. The Deputy Executive Director for Administrative and Finance. The Deputy Executive
Director for Administration and Finance shall have supervision over:

(a) Accounting Division;

(b) Administration and Budget Division;

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(d) Financial Management Division.

SECTION 1 1 . MDFO Field Offices. The field office for the MDFO will be established as the need
arises and upon the recommendation of the Executive Director and approval of the Board.

Each Field Office shall be composed of:

(a) Account Management Unit;

(b) Technical Operations Unit;

(d) Administrative and Finance Unit.

SEC. 12. Depository of the MDFO. The Land Bank of the Philippines, the Development Bank
of the Philippines, the Bureau of the Treasury or any such other qualified financial institutions shall
be the depository, disbursing and collecting agent of the MDFO, subject to the terms, conditions and
guidelines, as may be prescribed by the Policy Governing Board and in accordance with the provisions
of international and other implementing agency agreements.

SEC. 13. Transitory Provision. Until such time as the reorganization prescribed herein has been
completed and regular positions in the MDFO re-incorporated in the General Appropriations Act, or
in a Charter of the Municipal Development Fund:

1) The MDFO shall utilize the plantilla positions provided under the Second Municipal
Development Project (MDP 11) Central Projects Office. The key positions in the MDFO, as
determined by the Policy Governing Board shall be filled by consultants/contractuals funded
by the Program Support Account (PSA) and by secondment or detail of personnel of other
Government Departments, Bureaus, Offices and Agencies; Provided that all personnel with
money and/or property accountabilities, regardless of the nature of their appointments, shall
be bonded as required by existing law.

(2) Priority in the filling of positions shall be given to those functions which relate to sub-
project evaluation and appraisal (which is currently under the Central Projects Offices); loan
processing and releases (which is currently under the Bureau of Local Government Finance)
and the provision of technical assistance.

SEC. 14. Notice or Consent Requirement. If any organizational change herein authorized is of
such substance or materiality as to prejudice third parties with rights recognized by law and contract
that notice to, or consent of, creditors is required to be made or obtained pursuant to any agreement
entered into with any of such creditors, such notice or consent requirement shall be complied with
prior to the implementation of such organizational change.

SEC. 15. Funding of the MDFO. Funds needed to carry out the provisions of this Executive
order shall be provided from funds made available to the Department of Finance and the Municipal
Development Fund.

SEC. 16. Separately Clause. Any portion or provision of this Executive Order that may be
declared unconstitutional shall not have the effect of nullifying other portions or provisions hereof as
long as such remaining portions or provisions can still subsist and be given effect in their entirety.

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SEC. 17. Repealing Clause. All rules and regulations, resolutions of the existing Policy Governing
Board of the Municipal Development Fund, and other issuance or parts thereof, which are inconsistent
with the provisions of this Executive Order, are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

Done in the City of Manila, Philippines, this 20 th day of NOV., in the year of Our Lord, nineteen
hundred and ninety - eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 42

AMENDING EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 197, DATED AUGUST 29, 1994, CREATING THE
PRESIDENTIAL COMMISSION ON MARILAQUE GROWTH AREA, BY RENAMING
AND RATIONALIZING THE ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE, AND REDEFINING
THE FUNCTIONS AND TERRITORIAL COVERAGE OF THE COMMISSION

WHEREAS, there is a need to plan for, integrate, implement, and fast-track development efforts
and programs in the growth corridor from the National Capital Region to the provinces of Rizal,
Laguna, Aurora and Quezon to decongest Metro Manila and provide a growth link between Metro
Manila and the provinces of Rizal, Laguna, Aurora and Quezon;

WHEREAS, Executive Order No. 197, series of 1994, created the Presidential Commission on
MARILAQUE Growth Area to fast-track the implementation of programs and projects to facilitate
the development of the area from the National Capital Region to the provinces of Rizal, Laguna and
Quezon;

WHEREAS, on the basis of the MARILAQUE FRAMEWORK PLAN, nine flagship projects have
been identified, adopted and planned for implementation by the Commission; and

WHEREAS, there is a need to rename and rationalize the existing organizational structure,
and redefine the territorial coverage and functions of the Commission in order to provide the proper
perspective, minimize confusion and overlapping of programs among different development agencies,
and provide greater focus and impetus to the programs and objectives of the Commission.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue of
the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

Section 1. Section 1 of Executive Order No. 197 is hereby amended to read as follows:

“Section 1. Name and Territorial Coverage. The Presidential Commission to plan for and
develop a Growth Corridor shall be known as Presidential Commission on RIZLAQUE Growth
Area, embracing the provinces of Rizal, Laguna, Aurora and Quezon”.

Sec. 2. Section 2 of Executive Order No. 197 is hereby amended to read as follows:

“Sec. 2. Composition. The Commission shall be chaired by the Chairman of the
Presidential Committee on Flagship Programs and Projects, with the Chairman of the Public
Estate Authority (PEA) as Co-Chairman, and the following as members: Chairman of the
Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council, Deputy Director General, National
Economic and Development Authority; Undersecretaries of the Department of Public Works
and Highways, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Agrarian
Reform, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of the Interior and Local Government;

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Head of the Presidential Management Staff; and Governors of Rizal, Laguna, Aurora and

Quezon provinces”.

Sec. 3. In addition to the functions and responsibilities of the Commission as provided in
Executive Order No. 197, the Commission shall have the following functions and responsibilities:

“j. Provide overall direction, coordination, and supervision in the planning, implementation,
and monitoring of its projects under the MARILAQUE FRAMEWORK and MASTER
PLAN;

k. Enter into any kind of arrangement or agreement with public and private entities in
pursuance of its objectives and in furtherance of its mandate;

l. Act as coordinating body with respect to all plans, programs, and projects proposed by
the local government units and national agencies, for implementation within the growth
area;

m. Ensure that all projects and programs proposed to be undertaken by private entities
within the Growth Area are in consonant with the Commission’s developmental
frameworks.”

Sec. 4. Section 4 of Executive Ordr No. 197 is hereby amended to read as follows:

“Sec. 4. Powers and Functions of the Executive Director. The Executive Director, appointed

by the President of the Philippines, shall sit as ex-officio member of the Commission, and

shall be its Chief Executive responsible for the execution and administration of its approved

policies and measures. He shall also perform the following functions:

a. Submit for consideration of the Commission the policies and measures necessary to carry
out the mandate of the Commission;

b. Execute and administer the policies, plans, programs and projects approved by the
Commission;

c. Direct and supervise the operation and internal administration of the Commission;

d. Represent the Commission in all dealings with agencies and instrumentalities of the
government, and with all other private entities, domestic or foreign; and

e. Exercise such other duties as may be vested by the Commission and authorized by law.”

Sec. 5. Repealing Clause. The provisions of Executive Order No. 197 dated August 29, 1994,
and Executive Order No. 232 dated March 29, 1995, to the extent that they are inconsistent with this
Executive Order, are hereby repealed or amended accordingly.

Sec. 6. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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Done in the City of Manila, this 25 th day of NOVEMBER, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen
hundred and ninety eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 43

PROVIDING FOR THE CREATION OF A PREPARATORY COMMISSION ON
CONSTITUTIONAL REFORMS TO STUDY AND RECOMMEND PROPOSED AMENDMENTS
AND/OR REVISIONS TO THE 1987 PHILIPPINE CONSTITUTION

WHEREAS, the present administration has identified as a policy to study and consolidate
proposed amendments and/or revisions to the 1987 Constitution;

WHEREAS, the Constitution, as the organic instrument to which fundamental powers of
government are established, delimited and defined to be truly reflective of the ideals and aspirations of
the Filipino people, should be attuned to the heartbeat of the times.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Creation. There is hereby created a Preparatory Commission on Constitutional
Reform to study and recommend proposed amendments and/or revisions to the 1987 Constitution,
and the manner of implementing the same.

SEC. 2. Composition. The Preparatory Commission shall be composed of not more than
twenty five (25) members who shall be appointed by the President. The members shall be individuals
of national standing with knowledge and recognized competence on the structures and powers of
government, including, but not limited to,

a. Three (3) retired members of the Supreme Court;

b. A representative from the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP);

c. The Chair, Senate Committee on Constitutional Amendments;

d. The Chair, House of Representatives’ Committee on Constitutional Amendments;

e. Four (4) representatives from the academe;

f. A representative from the business sector;

g. A representative from the women’s sector;

h. A representative from the youth sector;

i. Two (2) representatives from the religious sector;

j. A representative from the media sector;

k. A representative from local government units;

l. A representative from the labor sector; and

m. A representative from the agricultural sector

SEC. 3. Qualifications. No person shall be appointed member of the Commission unless he
is a natural-born citizen of the Philippines, a qualified voter, of recognized probity, independence,
nationalism and patriotism.

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SEC. 4. Chairperson. The President shall appoint a Chairperson to the Commission who shall
preside over the meetings, conferences and other proceedings of the Commission.

SEC. 5. Powers of the Commission. The Commission shall determine the rules of its proceedings.
It shall conduct consultations with the Filipino people regarding its mandate.

SEC. 6. Secretariat. The Commission shall be assisted by a Secretariat in its day-to-day operations,
to be headed by an Executive Director, who shall be appointed by the President.

SEC. 7. Appropriation. The amount of Three Million Pesos (P3, 000, 000. 00) is hereby
appropriated for the operational expenses of the Commission to be sourced from the funds of the
Office of the President, subject to usual accounting and auditing rules and regulations.

SEC. 8. Time Frame. The Commission shall commence its work on 01 January 1999 and complete
the same on or before June 30, 1999, and thereafter present to the President their recommended
actions.

SEC. 9. Effectivity. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 26 th day of NOVEMBER, in the year of our Lord, nineteen
hundred and ninety-eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 44

DECLARING THE PHILIPPINE YOUTH GAMES - BATANG PINOY
AS THE NATIONAL SPORTS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM FOR CHILDREN

WHEREAS, Section 19 (1), Article XIV of the 1987 Constitution provides that “the State shall
promote physical education and encourage sports programs, league competitions and amateur sports
including training for international competition, to foster self-discipline, teamwork and excellence for
the development of a healthy and alert citizenry”;

WHEREAS, Republic Act No. 6847, created the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) under
the Office of the President, to carry out this constitutional mandate in coordination with the various
government departments, agencies and private entities;

WHEREAS, Executive Order No. 63 (s. 1993) created the national, regional, provincial, city,
municipal and barangay Physical Fitness and Sports Development Councils (PFSDCs), which shall act
as the nationwide organizational network to assist the PSC in the planning, information dissemination,
actual implementation and monitoring of the National Policy and Program of “Sports For All” as
embodied in Executive Order No. 64 (s. 1993) and based on the universal principle adopted by the
UNESCO International Chapter for Physical Education and Sports wherein the Philippines is a charter
signatory;

WHEREAS, the Philippine Sports Commission, in coordination with the Department of Interior
and Local Government (DILG), Department of Education, Culture and Sports (DECS) and the various
PFSDCs have launched the Philippine National Games as the “centerpiece program” toward the next
millennium by virtue of Executive Order No. 163 (s. 1994);

WHEREAS, the Philippine National Games, a biennial national tournament for highly
competitive athletes, has envisioned to strengthen its talent base by including competitions for young
children thereby harnessing the full potential of our people;

WHEREAS, the Philippine Youth Games - Batang Pinoy, being an integral part of the national
policy and program for sports development will effectively address our need for a comprehensive
grassroots program centered on values formation inherent in the practice of sports and play
(e.g. patriotism, nationalism, self-discipline, respect for law and order, hardwork, teamwork,
camaraderie, sportsmanship and fair play), thus, eliminating the child’s chances of becoming a
juvenile delinquent; and

WHEREAS, the program can serve as recruitment base for sports specialization including training
for other high level leagues, national tournaments and international competitions.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. All concerned national agencies are hereby directed to extend their full support,
cooperation and active involvement in the promotion, public awareness generation and program
coordination for the Philippine Youth Games-Batang Pinoy.

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SEC. 2. The DILG and the DECS, being co-chairmen of the National PFSDC, are hereby directed
to assist the PSC in the planning, information dissemination, coordination, monitoring and actual
implementation of the program. The DILG and DECS are likewise authorized to provide the PSC with
technical manpower support, training venues and other forms of assistance as necessary.

SEC. 3. All local government units (LGUs) constituting the PFSDCs are hereby enjoined to extend
full support and active participation in the program.

SEC. 4. Said LGUs are hereby authorized to appropriate whatever amount is necessary from their
available budgets for the promotion of the National Policy and Program of “Sports for All”, including
a well-synchronized year-round calendar of sports activities and competitions culminating with the
celebration of the Philippine Youth Games - Batang Pinoy in 1999.

SEC. 5. The PSC is hereby encouraged to solicit additional funding support for the Philippine
Youth Games - Batang Pinoy from government and non-government organizations. The PSC shall
extend the tax incentive pursuant to Section 20 of RA 6847 on donations and contributions.

SEC. 6. All concerned Non-Government Organizations, the Philippine Olympic Committee,
concerned National Sports Associations are hereby encouraged to lend their cooperation to the
program.

This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE, in the City of Manila, this 2 nd day of December, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

President of the Republic of the Philippines

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
OF THE PHILIPPINES
malacaNang

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 45

CREATING A PRESIDENTIAL ANTI-SMUGGLING TASK FORCE TO INVESTIGATE AND
PROSECUTE CRIMES INVOLVING LARGE-SCALE SMUGGLING AND OTHER FRAUDS UPON
CUSTOMS AND PROVIDING MEASURES TO EXPEDITE SEIZURE PROCEEDINGS

WHEREAS, large-scale smuggling and frauds upon customs and other related illegal practices
undermine the national interest and security;

WHEREAS, the prevention and suppression of smuggling and other related fraudulent practices
against customs laws is one of the urgent concerns of the administration;

WHEREAS, the creation of a presidential body particularly tasked to investigate and prosecute
large-scale smuggling and other illegal or unlawful importations is necessary to effectively counteract
this form of economic sabotage and strengthen our system of enforcement of revenue laws;

WHEREAS, the Administrative Code of 1987 empowers the President with the continuing
authority to reorganized the Office of the President and to transfer functions from one department or
agency to another;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. CREATION OF TASK FORCE . - There is hereby created a Presidential Anti-
Smuggling Task Force, hereinafter called the “Task Force,” under the control and supervision of the
Office of the President principally to combat smuggling, unlawful importations and other frauds upon
customs committed in large scale or by organized and syndicated groups.

SEC. 2. COMPOSITION . - The Task Force shall be composed of senior officials from the
following agencies: The Office of the President, the Department of Finance, the Department of Justice,
the Bureau of Customs, the Bureau of Internal Revenue, the Economic Intelligence and Investigation
Bureau, the National Bureau of Investigation, the Philippine National Police and the Intelligence
Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

The Task Force shall be headed by a qualified senior law enforcement officer to be designated by
the President. He shall be assisted by a deputy who shall likewise be designated by the President.

SEC. 3. POWERS AND FUNCTIONS . - The Task Force shall have the following powers and
functions:

To prepare and implement appropriate and effective measures to prevent and suppress large-
scale smuggling and other prohibited and unlawful importations;

2. To effect searches and seizures conformably with the provisions of the Tariff and Customs
Code, as amended, and to cause or direct the immediate arrest, investigation and speedy
prosecution of smugglers and illegal importers;

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3. To conduct intelligence and counter-intelligence on smuggling and other unlawful
importations, including the monitoring of situations, circumstances, activities of individuals,
groups and entities who are involved or who are reasonably believed to be involved in
smuggling activities;

4. To select and recruit personnel from within the PNP and other law enforcement agencies for
assignment to the Task Force with the conformity of the office or agency concerned;

5. To enlist the assistance of any department, bureau, office or agency or instrumentality of
the government, including government-owned or controlled corporations to carry out its
functions, including the use of their respective personnel, facilities and resources;

6. To perform such functions and carry out such activities as may be directed by the President.

SEC. 4. OFFENSES COVERED . - The Task Force shall have the authority to take cognizance of
the following crimes:

a) Smuggling and customs frauds committed by organized or syndicated groups or criminal
enterprises.

b) Smuggling and other false and fraudulent importations or violations of customs laws
committed in large scale.

c) Such other cases of violations of the Tariff and Customs Code, as amended, as the President
may determine from time to time.

Smuggling and other customs frauds and violations of customs laws shall be deemed committed
by a syndicate if carried out by a group of three (3) or more persons conspiring or confederating with
or mutually helping one another in carrying out the criminal acts. They shall be deemed committed in
large scale if committed in connivance with officials and employees of the Bureau of Customs or where
the determinable value of importations exceeds PIMillion.

SEC. 5. ORGANIZATIONAL SUPPORT . - The Task Force shall organize technical,
administrative and special staffs composed of personnel assigned or detailed to the Task Force by
the different agencies called to assist the Task Force. The head of the Task Force shall delineate the
respective responsibilities of the supporting staffs.

SEC. 6. SPECIAL TEAM OF PROSECUTORS . - To assist the Task Force in the expeditious
prosecution of criminal and other cases involving syndicated and large scale smuggling and customs
frauds, a Special Team of Prosecutors from the Department of Justice shall be assigned to the Task
Force. The team shall have the following powers and duties:

1 . To evaluate evidence gathered by the Task Force and to determine whether or not violations
of the Tariff Code or Customs Code, as amended, and other related laws and regulations have
been committed;

2. To initiate and conduct preliminary investigations and to file and prosecute the appropriate
administrative and criminal charges against person(s) responsible for the violation of customs
law;

3. To recommend the issuance of warrant of seizure and detention in appropriate cases.

The Special Team of Prosecutors may be assisted by lawyers selected and recruited by the Task
Force from the National Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Customs and the Economic Intelligence
and Investigation Bureau.

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SEC. 7. SPECIAL POOL OF HEARING OFFICERS . - A Special Pool of Hearing Officers in the
Bureau of Customs under the Deputy Commissioner for Revenue Collection and Monitoring Group
is hereby created to specifically attend to or hear seizure cases arising from unlawful importations and
violations of customs laws being investigated by the Task Force.

In addition to the powers granted under the Tariff and Customs Code, as amended and under
customs rules and regulations issued pursuant thereto, the Hearing Officers shall have the authority
to summon witnesses, administer oaths, or take testimony or evidence relevant to the investigation
by subpoena ad testificandum and subpoena duces tecum, to rule on motions and issues presented
during the proceedings and to do such other acts necessary and incidental to the discharge of their
functions.

The Special Pool of Hearing Officers shall be composed of at least six (6) members to be selected
from the various legal units of the Bureau of Customs.

SEC. 8. SUMMARY PROCEEDINGS . - The seizure proceedings shall be terminated within
a period of thirty (30) days from the date of commencement of hearing. Subject to the essential
requirement of due process, the technicalities of law and procedure and the rules governing the
admissibility and sufficiency of evidence obtaining in courts of law shall not strictly apply.

The decision on seizure proceedings shall be rendered by the Collector of Customs within five (5)
days from termination of the formal hearing.

Non-compliance with the mandatory period for termination of the proceedings and rendition
of decision shall subject the responsible officials to suspension or dismissal from the service as the
circumstances shall warrant.

SEC. 9. AUTHORIZATIONS . - The Commissioner of Customs shall, if necessary, issue such
authorizations and orders required under the Tariff and Customs Code, as amended, for all purposes
relevant to the exercise and performance of the powers and functions of the Task Force.

SEC. 10. FUNDING . - Subject to the usual audit, the Task Force shall be provided with an
initial annual allocation of twenty million pesos to be drawn from the President’s Contingency
Fund and from the government’s savings. Thereafter, appropriations for the succeeding years shall be
incorporated in the budget proposal of the Office of the President.

SEC. 11. OPERATING GUIDELINES . - The Task Force shall adopt, in coordination with
customs law enforcement agencies, such operating guidelines as may be necessary to implement this
Executive Order, subject to the approval of the President. It shall submit to the President reports of its
activities with appropriate recommendations for the information and guidance of the President.

SEC. 12. COORDINATING INSTRUCTIONS . - The objective of this issuance is to focus and
maximize the impact on organized and large-scale smuggling and related crimes to be addressed by the
Task Force operating directly under the Office of the President, while the Philippine National Police
shall continue to be the primary general law enforcement agency of the country pursuant to Republic
Act No. 6875, as amended. Accordingly, close coordination and cooperation shall be undertaken by
the head of the Task Force, the Chief of the PNP and other heads of customs law enforcement agencies,
to insure effective and efficient prosecution of the anti-smuggling campaign.

SEC. 13. REPEALING CLAUSE . - All orders, issuances, rules and regulations, or parts thereof
which are inconsistent with this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

SEC. 14. EFFECTIVITY . This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 3 rd day of DECEMBER, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety-Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 46

ESTABLISHING THE PRESIDENTIAL COMMISSION ON EDUCATIONAL REFORM (PCER)

WHEREAS, in the early 1990’s the Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM)
submitted its findings to the Philippine Congress on the education system and made several policy
recommendations. Most of those policy recommendations have been translated into educational laws
but other important recommendations remain to be acted upon;

WHEREAS, it has been more than five years since the EDCOM’s report and recommendation,
and many important changes have taken place since then in education, culture and science;

WHEREAS, a country’s investment in human capital is crucial to its economic and social
development;

WHEREAS, under the 10-point action plan of the Estrada Presidency, it is mandated to create
a Presidential Commission on Educational Reform (PCER), to define a budget-feasible program of
reform, and identify executive priority policy recommendations and item for a legislative agenda on
education;

WHEREAS, the PCER is a multi-sectoral body comprised of representatives from government
line agencies public and private schools at all levels, teachers, private industry, NGOs, and other
concerned sectors;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1 Presidential Commission on Educational Reform (PCER)

There is hereby established the Presidential Commission on Educational Reform (PCER), under
the Office of the President, which shall be a multi-sectoral body comprised of representatives from
government line agencies, the University of the Philippines, the Open University - University of the
Philippines; public and private schools at all levels; teachers; the agriculture and industry sectors; the
information technology sector; state colleges and universities; other concerned sectors.

SEC. 2. Structure.

a. The Commission will be chaired by a person with outstanding record in education and of
proven integrity appointed by the President for the duration of the life of the Commission.

Members of the Commission will include the Secretary of Education, Culture and Sports; the
Chairman of the Commission on Higher Education; the Director-General of the Technical Education
Skills Development Authority; the Director-General of the National Economic Development Authority;
a representative of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry and a representative from
private agriculture; representatives each from the Department of Interior and Local Government;
Department of Science and Technology, the University of the Philippines, Department of Finance, the
state colleges and universities; superintendents; public and private school teachers; private and public
school associations.

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The Education Committee Chairmen of the Upper and Lower Houses will be invited to attend
meetings ex-officio either personally or through their representatives.

b. There will be a Secretariat, headed by a full time Executive Director contracted for the
purpose, housed within DECS, and staffed by individuals seconded by DECS, CHED and TESDA.

c. There will be a working committee to assist the Executive Director in the design and conduct
of the education sector analysis, composed of a senior representative of concerned Departments,
Agencies and private sector constituencies.

SEC. 3. Coverage.

The Commission shall be given one year to define a comprehensive and a budget-feasible program
of reform in the following areas:

1 Curricula, teaching methods, instructional media, educational technologies, textbooks,
language policy and school calendar in use at the elementary and secondary levels, using
international benchmarks.

2. Modernization of science laboratories, improvement of science and mathematics education
and the feasibility of establishing regional centers of excellence in science education.

3. Upgrading of computer classrooms, computing facilities and internet access in all schools that
meet eligibility standards for administering such programs.

4. Expansion, modernization and standardization of our vocational and technical institutions,
specially polytechnic colleges and universities.

5. Distance learning and continuing education programs, specially for adults and out-of-school
youth, with a view towards possible eventual accreditation.

6. Tuition financing schemes intended to bring the effective purchasing power of students in line
with the real costs of tertiary education.

7. Programs, resources and facilities of state universities and colleges, other than UP, with
the intention of rationalizing their academic offering and aligning them with employer
requirements in their respective areas.

8. Governance, organization, programs, resources, and facilities of the University of the
Philippines, with a view towards developing its flagships campus in Diliman into one of the
top ten universities in Asia in time for the UP Centennial in 2008.

9. Other priority areas of concern in education that arise from the research and consultations
conducted by the Commission.

SEC. 4. Process.

The report and the recommendation for both executive policy and legislative action will be drawn
from an analysis by the Commission of the Philippine educational system, based on research of existing
studies and other secondary sources of data, on extensive consultations with different sectors, and on
interviews with key person in the system.

SEC. 5. Time Frame.

The Commission will start its work upon signing of this Executive Order, and submit its final
report and recommendations to the Office of the President of the Philippines one year thereafter. The
Commission will automatically be dissolved upon the submission of its report.

SEC. 6. Operating Requirements.

The Department of Education, Culture and Sports (DECS) shall provide the sum of P4M annually
to be sourced from its existing budget. For the operating requirement of Presidential Commission on

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Educational Reform (PCER) including the payment of compensation of its Chairman/Members in the
form of honoraria or per diem on a monthly basis as follows:

One (1) Chairman at P10,000.00

Two (2) Vice-Chairmen at P5,000.00 each

Eighteen (18) Members at P3,000.00 each

One (1) Executive Director (For secondment basis) at P30,000.00

SEC. 7. Effectivity.

This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 7th day of December, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety-Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 47

BROADENING THE POWERS OF THE SECRETARY OF FINANCE
OVER THE BUREAU OF CUSTOMS

WHEREAS, it is the declared policy of the State to promote efficiency in the collection of taxes
and customs duties;

WHEREAS, the Bureau of Customs performs a major role in the collection of revenues for the
government;

WHEREAS, Executive Order No. 39, Series of 1986 enlarged the powers and functions of the
Commissioner of Customs by authorizing him the following:

a) To appoint Bureau personnel, except those appointed by the President;

b) To discipline, suspend, dismiss or otherwise penalize erring Bureau officers and employees;

c) To act on all matters pertaining to promotion, transfer, detail, reassignment, reemployment
and other personal action, involving officers and employees of the Bureau of Customs.

WHEREAS, the Department of Finance is mandated to be primarily responsible for the sound
and efficient management of the financial resources of the government, its subdivisions, agencies and
instrumentalities;

WHEREAS, the Bureau of Customs is attached to the Department of Finance;

WHEREAS, it is indispensable for the Department of Finance to have full supervision and control
over the Bureau of Customs to effectively carry out its mandate of promoting the efficient collection of
government revenues;

WHEREAS, there is a need, in the exigency of public service, to see to it that the policy formulated
and adopted by the Department of Finance be properly implemented;

WHEREAS, the President of the Philippines has the continuing power to reorganize the National
Government as established under Presidential Decree No. 1416, as amended by Presidential Decree
No. 1772 and the Revised Administrative Code of 1987;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. The Secretary of Finance shall have the power to review, reverse, revise, modify or
set aside decisions of the Bureau of Customs, subject to the Civil Service Law, regarding the Bureau’s
personnel appointments, promotion, assignment, transfer, detail, suspension, dismissal and such other
personnel action concerning them.

SECTION 2. REPEALING CLAUSE. All executive orders, administrative orders, proclamations,
rules and regulations or parts thereof that are inconsistent with this Order are hereby repealed or
modified accordingly.

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SECTION 3. EFFECTIVITY. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

Done in the City of Manila, this 8 th day of DEC., in the year of our lord Nineteen Hundred and
Ninety Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

President of the Republic of the Philippines

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 48

ESTABLISHING A PROGRAM FOR DEVOLUTION ADJUSTMENT AND EQUALIZATION

WHEREAS, Republic Act 7160, otherwise known as the Local Government Code of 1991
conferred upon local government units (LGUs) specific functions, powers and responsibilities to
continue and effectively implement the delivery of basic services and facilities devolved to them by the
national government agencies (NGAs) and offices pursuant to the provisions of said Code;

WHEREAS, the NGAs concerned have effected the devolution of basic services, powers and
responsibilities and the transfer of assets, liabilities, personnel, equipment and records to LGUs not
later than June 30, 1992 pursuant to Executive Order 503, series of 1992;

WHEREAS, the EO 503, series of 1992, likewise directed recipient LGUs to provide appropriate
funds in their respective budgets for maintenance and other operating expenditures of the transferred
personnel and assets, among others;

WHEREAS, based on the results of the status appraisal on the functions and services devolved
to the LGUs, there is an urgent need to undertake resource mobilization and augment the funding
required to ensure the effective implementation and delivery of devolved services and maintenance of
transferred assets and facilities;

WHEREAS, to establish increased participation in achieving the priority agenda for action of
the national government on food security and poverty alleviation, there is the urgency to address the
critical needs and recognize the vital roles of local government units at all levels;

WHEREAS, there is an urgent need to ensure the full and effective implementation of devolved
basic services and facilities by LGUs through the establishment of a mechanism for addressing policy,
program and resource issues arising from the devolution of functions and services to the LGUs towards
autonomy, decentralization and efficient governance;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order that:

Section 1. Establishment of a Program for Devolution Adjustment and Equalization. A Program
for Devolution Adjustment and Equalization is hereby established to facilitate the process of enhancing
the capacities of local government units in the discharge of the functions and services devolved to them
by the NGAs concerned pursuant to the Local Government Code.

The Program shall seek to achieve the following objectives:

a) Address the current shortfalls encountered by LGUs in the implementation of devolution-
related programs, projects and activities;

b) Establish a fund allocation system and equitable distribution schemes to cover the cost of
devolution for the effective exercise of the devolved functions and services by the LGUs;

c) Adopt and institutionalize a performance incentives system and counterparting schemes for
LGUs to enhance their devolved functions and services;

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d) Provide the opportunities and access to resources and technical assistance that will enable
LGUs to build their capacities for the effective discharge of the devolved functions and
services;

e) Strengthen cooperation and partnership among the key proponents in undertaking legislative
and policy advocacy for the meaningful implementation of devolution;

f) Develop and facilitate cooperative arrangements among NGAs, Government-owned and
-controlled corporations (GOCCs), LGUs, private financial institutions and foreign bilateral
and multilateral organizations for purposes of resource mobilization and funds generation;

g) Ensure effective monitoring and assessment of devolved functions and services of LGUs and
track performance and accountabilities of LGUs in attaining the objectives of devolution.

Section 2. The Devolution Committee. The Devolution Committee, as constituted in consonance
with Book IV, Title Three, Sec. 533 (b) of Republic Act 7160, otherwise known as the Local
Government Code of 1991, shall formulate and issue the appropriate rules and regulations necessary
for the effective implementation of this Executive Order. The Devolution Committee may call on any
government agency or instrumentality, as may be deemed necessary in the exercise of its mandate under
this Executive Order.

Section 3. The Secretariat. A Secretariat is hereby created to coordinate and implement the
provisions of this Executive Order and such policies, implementing rules and regulations, as may be
promulgated by the Devolution Committee. The Devolution Committee shall adopt the appropriate
and necessary organizational structure and staffing pattern of the Secretariat subject to existing rules
and regulations governing such purposes.

Section 4. Funding. To address the funding shortfalls of functions and services devolved to the
LGUs and other funding requirements of the Program, the Devolution Adjustment and Equalization
Fund is hereby created. For CY 1998, the Department of Budget and Management is hereby directed
to set aside an amount to be determined by the Oversight Committee based on the devolution status
appraisal surveys undertaken by the Department of Interior and Local Government. Said Fund shall
be sourced from the available savings of the national government for CY 1998. For CY 1999 and
succeeding years, the corresponding amount required to sustain the Program shall be incorporated in
the annual General Appropriations Act. The Devolution Committee shall issue the implementing rules
and regulations governing an equitable allocation and distribution of said Fund to the LGUs.

The Devolution Committee is hereby authorized to allocate an amount not to exceed one-half of
one percent of said Fund for the operating and maintenance requirements of the Committee and the
Secretariat.

Section 5. Administrative and Implementing Guidelines. The Devolution Committee shall adopt
administrative and implementing guidelines as may be necessary to implement this Executive Order.

Section 6. Repealing Clause. All orders, issuances, rules and regulations or parts thereof, which
are inconsistent with this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 7 th day of DEC, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

President of the Philippines

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 49

AMENDING EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 383, S. 1996, FOR THE PURPOSE
OF RECONSTITUTING AND EXPANDING THE MEMBERSHIP
OF THE TRIPARTITE INDUSTRIAL PEACE COUNCIL

WHEREAS, industrial peace is a fundamental requisite of national growth, development and
social justice;

WHEREAS, a broad and democratic base of participation through social dialogues, consultations
and consensus among the government, workers, employers and their organizations, particularly in the
formulation of labor and employment policies and programs, is a necessary condition in sustaining
industrial peace;

WHEREAS, Article 275 of the Labor Code, as amended, institutionalizes tripartism as a labor
relations policy, to the end that the government, workers, employers and their organizations are
provided with appropriate mechanisms for active and democratic participation in resolving labor and
employment issues;

WHEREAS, to attain the foregoing comprehensive goals, the Tripartite Industrial Peace Council
(TIPC) was established through Executive Order No. 403, Series of 1990, and later reorganized
through Executive Order No. 25, Series of 1992 and Executive Order No. 383, Series of 1996;

WHEREAS, the emerging challenges and social tensions arising from globalization underscores
the continuing need to improve the capability, efficiency, and effectiveness of consensus-building
mechanisms, especially the TIPC;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH M. EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by
virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Reconstitution. - The Tripartite Industrial Peace Council hereinafter referred to as
the TIPC, established under Executive Order No. 403, Series of 1990, Executive Order No. 25, Series
of 1992, and Executive Order No. 383, Series of 1996, is hereby reorganized and reconstituted.

SEC 2. Functions. - The TIPC shall have the following functions:

a To monitor the full implementation and compliance by concerned sectors with the provisions
of all tripartite instruments, including international conventions and declarations, codes of
conduct, and social accords;

b) To participate in national, regional or industry-specific tripartite conferences which the
President or the Secretary of Labor and Employment may call from time to time;

c) To review existing labor, economic and social policies and to evaluate local and international
developments affecting them;

d) To formulate, for submission to the President or to Congress, tripartite views,
recommendations and proposals on labor, economic and social concerns, including the
presentation of tripartite positions on relevant bills pending in Congress;

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e) To advise the Secretary of Labor and Employment in the formulation or implementation of
policies and legislations affecting labor and employment;

f) To serve as a communication channel and a mechanism for undertaking joint programs
among government, workers, employers and their organizations toward enhancing labor-
management relations; and

g) To adopt its own program of activities and rules, consistent with development objectives.

SEC 3. Composition. - The Secretary of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) shall
be the Chairperson of the TIPC. There shall be a maximum of twenty (20) regular representatives
each from workers and employers organizations to be designated by the President upon nomination by
their respective sectors. However. The Chairperson, upon the agreement of the regular members, may
recognize non-regular representatives from time to time as circumstances may warrant.

The following Departments, through their respective Secretaries or duly authorized
representatives, not lower than Director IV, shall constitute the regular membership of the government
sector:

a) Department of Trade and Industry (DTI);

b) National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA);

c) Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG);

d) Department of Agriculture (DA);

e) Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR);

f) Department of Energy (DOE);

g) Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR);

h) Department of Tourism (DOT);

i) Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD);

j) Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC); and

k) Commission of Higher Education (CHED)

The Civil Service Commission (CSC), the Department of Education, Culture and Sports (DECS),
and all other DOLE agencies, through their duly authorized representatives who shall not be lower in
rank than Director IV, shall act as permanent resource persons to the TIPC in their respective areas of
competence.

SEC 4. Tripartite Executive Committee . The TIPC shall constitute a Tripartite Executive
Committee (TEC) from among its regular members or such representatives as may be agreed upon
by the regular members. The number of worker and employer representatives in the TEC shall be
determined by the TIPC, taking into account balanced representation. The TEC shall be tasked with
the effective day-to-day functioning of the TIPC, the performance of activities and projects approved
by the TIPC, and shall perform such other specific assignments delegated to it by the TIPC.

Sec 5. Sub-Committees . The Chairperson, upon consultation with the TIPC, may constitute
industry-wide tripartite councils at the national level, which shall be deemed to be sub-committees
of the TIPC and which shall address issues and appropriate responses to the TIPC with respect to
industry-specific concerns. The regular members of the TIPC may themselves be designated as members
of such industry councils.

SEC 6. Regional Councils . - Consistent with the principle of equitable and effective representation,
the Regional Directors of the DOLE may likewise constitute such Regional Tripartite Industrial Peace
Councils (RTIPCs), tripartite industry councils (ITCs), or area-wide labor-management consultative

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councils, including appropriate sub-committees at the provincial, city, or municipal levels, as may be
appropriate under the circumstances. In such cases, the Regional Director shall serve as chairperson
of the regional councils; provided, however, that the chairperson of the provincial, city or municipal
councils shall be agreed upon by majority of the representatives present. Such councils shall be
considered subcommittees of the national council and shall form integral parts thereof.

SEC 7. Tenure of Representatives . - The regular members representing the worker and employer
sectors in the TIPC and its subcommittees shall continuously serve as such so long as they remain with
or are not recalled by their respective sectors, or until their resignation or replacement by the President
upon recommendation by the sector concerned in the case of the national council or by the Regional
Director in the case of the regional councils. The regular sectoral members of the TIPC as well as
members of the appropriate committees or regional councils shall continue to serve as such until their
replacements are named in accordance with the provisions of this Order.

SEC 8. Rules and Meetings . - The TIPC shall adopt its own action plan and operational rules, and
shall meet regularly in plenary at least every quarter, without prejudice to such other special plenary
meetings which any of the sectors may initiate, or such other meetings to be called by the TEC or the
appropriate committees.

SEC 9. Management. Secretariat and Funding . - The Bureau of Labor Relations (BLR) shall
manage all TIPC and related activities, including the provision of technical and secretariat services.
It shall also be a regular member of the TEC constituted pursuant to Section 4 hereof, and shall be
responsible for managing the TEC’s activities. For this purpose, the existing Secretariat of the TIPC
shall be placed under the direct technical and administrative control and supervision of the BLR. To
facilitate cross-sectoral coordination, the worker and employer sectors may designate their permanent
representatives to the Secretariat. The BLR shall also provide the regional offices such technical and
administrative support as may be needed to ensure the integration of regional and national concerns.
Funding of all TIPC activities shall be sourced from the regular budget of DOLE.

SEC 10. Periodic Reports . - The Chairperson, in behalf of the TIPC, shall submit periodic reports
of its activities to the President. The committees or subcommittees of the TIPC shall likewise submit,
through the BLR, periodic reports to the Chairperson.

SEC 11. Relation to Other Tripartite Agencies. - Nothing herein shall be construed as restricting
the prerogative of the President or the Secretary of Labor and Employment in calling for periodic
consultations with the members of the TIPC, nor diminishing the authority of the Secretary of Labor
and Employment or other tripartite agencies as defined in existing laws.

SEC 12. Repealing Clause . - Executive Order No. 403, Series of 1990, Executive Order No. 25,
Series of 1992, and Executive Order No. 383, Series of 1996, and all previous issuances or parts thereof
which are inconsistent with this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

SEC 13. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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Done in the City of Manila, this 9 th day of DECEMBER, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen
hundred and ninety eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 -338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 50

PROVIDING FOR THE ABOLITION OF THE WORLD EXPO 2002 PHILIPPINES COMMISSION
CREATED UNDER EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 177, SERIES OF 1994, AS AMENDED

WHEREAS, the Philippine Government, due to its present fiscal constraints is unable to provide
budgetary support for the holding in the country of the World Expo 2002, enlists the private sector’s
resources and initiatives to ensure the successful conduct of the World Expo in the country;

WHEREAS, the private sector has taken the lead in the preparations and coordination for the
holding of the World Expo in Manila in the year 2002;

WHEREAS, the government’s role in the conduct of the World Expo 2002 shall be confined to
providing policy support and ensuring a climate of peace and order for the Expo;

WHEREAS, the functions and duties of the World Expo 2002 Philippines Commission created
under Executive Order No. 177 s. of 1994, as amended by Executive Order No. 17 s. 1998, can be
taken over by the private sector; and

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order the abolition of the World Expo 2002
Philippines Commission and the transfer of its residual functions and assets, if any, to the Department
of Tourism.

This Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE, in the City of Manila, this 22nd day of December, in the year of our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998).
Presidential Management Staff.

[ Executive Order Nos.:

338]. Manila:

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 51

DIRECTING ALL DEPARTMENTS, BUREAUS, OFFICES, AGENCIES AND
INSTRUMENTALITIES OF THE NATIONAL GOVERNMENT, INCLUDING GOVERNMENT-
OWNED AND CONTROLLED CORPORATIONS, THE ARMED FORCES OF THE PHILIPPINES
AND THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE WHO EITHER PROVIDE RICE TO THEIR
EMPLOYEES AS A FORM OF INCENTIVE OR NON-MONETARY BENEFIT OR USE RICE IN
CONNECTION WITH THEIR FUNCTIONS, TO PURCHASE THEIR RICE REQUIREMENTS
FROM THE NATIONAL FOOD AUTHORITY

WHEREAS, the National Food Authority (NFA) is mandated by law to stabilize the supply and
price of the country’s staple food, rice;

WHEREAS, to pursue its mandate, the NFA is authorized to build up and maintain a minimum
strategic rice reserve equivalent to 15 days national consumption at every given time of the year and a
buffer stock equivalent to at least 30 days by July 1 of every year;

WHEREAS, a growing number of government offices, agencies and instrumentalities provide rice
to their employees as a form of incentive or non-monetary benefit;

WHEREAS, NFA rice is priced at a reasonable level far lower than the price of commercial rice of
comparable quality, thus making it affordable especially to fixed and low income earners;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the power vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Sourcing of Rice from the National Food Authority. The National Food Authority
shall be the primary supplier or source of rice of government entities who either grant rice as a form
of incentive or benefit to their employees or use rice in connection with their functions. Only upon
issuance of an NFA waiver can these government entities source rice elsewhere.

SEC. 2. Rice Distribution Scheme for Government Offices. Agencies and Instrumentalities. The
National Food Authority, shall draw up the scheme and guidelines, with the approval of the NFA
Council, to facilitate the withdrawal, delivery and payment of NFA rice to be availed of by government
entities for their employees or in pursuit of their respective functions.

SEC. 3. Rice Supply Agreement. The National Food Authority shall prepare and initiate
the forging of an appropriate Memorandum of Agreement with concerned government offices to
operationalize the rice supply arrangement.

SEC. 4. Repealing Clause. All executive orders, rules and regulations and other issuances or parts
thereof that are inconsistent with the provision of this Executive Order are hereby either revoked or
modified accordingly.

SEC. 5. Effectivitv. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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Done in the City of Manila, this 22 nd day of DECEMBER, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen
hundred and ninety eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). / Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 52

CREATING A YOUTH ENVIRONMENTAL CORPS IN ALL KATIPUNAN NG KABATAAN
TO BE KNOWN AS GREEN BRIGADE (GB) TO PROMOTE ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS
AND ACTION AMONG THE FILIPINO YOUTH; MANDATING THE FORMULATION OF THE
NATIONAL YOUTH ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION PLAN AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

WHEREAS, the Constitution recognizes the right of the people to enjoy a healthful ecology in
accordance with the rhythm and harmony of nature;

WHEREAS, the Constitution recognizes the youth as having an indispensable role in nation-
building, with a primordial stake in addressing present problems relating to environmental quality and
healthful ecology;

WHEREAS, it is recognized that the protection and conservation of the environment is best
planned and implemented using a community-based approach;

WHEREAS, the present generation has an obligation to ensure that future generations of Filipinos
will enjoy a healthful environment;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by the Constitution, do hereby order that:

SECTION 1. Creation. - There is hereby created a youth environmental corps within the
Katipunan ng Kabataan in all barangays of the country to be called Green Brigade (GB).

SEC 2. Composition and Structure

(a) The Green Brigade shall be composed of at least twenty-five (25) members of the Katipunan
ng Kabataan in each barangay.

(b) The Sangguniang Kabataan Council member shall elect among themselves the head of
the GB of each Barangay. The GB secretary and GB treasurer who shall be elected among
the members of the GB shall assist him. Appropriate committees and bodies shall also be
constituted.

SEC 3. Relationship with the Sangguniang Kabataan. - The GB shall be deemed the Committee
on Environment of the Sangguniang Kabataan of such barangay for purposes of funding and
implementation of environment related projects.

SEC 4. Funding Source for the Barangay GB. - Subject to applicable budgetary laws, rules
and regulations, ten percent (10%) of the annual budget of the Sangguniang Kabataan shall be
automatically allocated for the operations of the GB. However, the GB may hold fund-raising activities
for purposes of augmenting its funds, the proceeds of which shall be deemed as funds raised by the
Sangguniang Kabataan under Section 426 (a) of Republic Act No. 7160.

SEC 5. Powers and Functions of the Barangay GB. - The GB of each barangay shall have the
following powers and functions:

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(a) Formulate and implement the local youth environmental action plan which addresses the
specific environmental concerns of the barangay. The local plan shall be in consonance with
the plans and programs set forth in the National Youth Environmental Action Plan referred
to in Section 10.

(b) Undertake educational projects which will promote youth partnership in the sustainable
development programs in the barangay including but not limited to environmental awareness
campaigns, clean-up drives and tree planting activities and establish and maintain links with
existing youth groups in the barangay for purposes of coordinated youth action relating to
environmental protection and preservation.

(c) Propose ordinances to Sangguniang Kabataan and/or the sanggunian of the local government
unit toward the promotion of sustainable development and environmental protection and
natural resources conservation/preservation.

Such other powers and functions as may hereafter be provided or as may be necessary and
incidental for the performance of its mandate.

6. Deputation of Barangay Green Brigade. -

There shall be a Deputized Environmental and Natural Resources Officer (DENRO) in every
barangay. Ele/She shall be elected among the GB members provided that he/she is between 18
to 21 years old.

The Green Brigade DENRO in every barangay shall assist the DENR in monitoring and
reporting violations of environmental laws.

7. Municipal/City Green Brigade Federations. -

(a) The barangay Green Brigades through their chairpersons shall be organized into Municipal/
City Green Brigade Federations. It shall automatically be chaired by the vice president of the
Municipal or City SK Federation;

For purposes of funding and program implementation, the Green Brigade at the municipal/
city level shall be deemed as the permanent Committee on the Environment of the Pederasyon
ng Sangguniang Kabataan. The Pederasyon ng Sangguniang Kabataan shall provide such
funds as may be necessary and adequate for the effective performance by the Municipality/
City GB Federation of its functions as hereafter provided.

SEC 8. Powers and Functions of the Municipal/City Green Brigade Federation The Municipal/
City GB Federation shall have the following powers and functions:

(a) Formulate the municipal/city youth environmental action plans.

(b) Enter into cooperative agreements with other youth groups in the area for purposes of
coordination in the implementation of youth environmental actions;

(d) Propose ordinances/resolutions to the Municipal/City Sangguniang Kabataan Federation or
Municipal/City Council relations to environmental protection.

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(e) Such other power and functions as may hereafter be provided or as may be necessary or
incidental to the performance of the mandate.

SEC. 9. Powers and Functions of the National GB Coordinating Committee. -

(a) There shall be a National GB Coordinating Committee (NGBCC) composed of the
Chairman of NYC as overall coordinator and one (1) representative each from the DENR
and the Department of Interior and Local Governments (DILG) with the rank of assistant
secretary, the president of the Pambansang Pederasyon ng mga Sangguniang Kabataan, and
two (2) youth environmental non-governmental organizations (NGOs) with a good record of
community service as members.

(b) The NGBCC shall be responsible for formulating the National Youth Environmental Action
Plan within 60 days after the approval of the Executive Order. The NGBCC shall also
coordinate and monitor the implementation of the NYEAP.

(c) The National Youth Commission (NYC) shall serve as the secretariat of the NGBCC. It
shall likewise provide technical and funding support for the meetings and operations of the
NGBCC.

SEC. 10. National Youth Environmental Action Plan. - The National Youth Environmental
Action Plan (NYEAP) shall be the basis of local youth environmental action plans in barangays/cities/
municipalities. The NYEAP shall include among others the following components:

(a) Philosophy and Concept of Ecology and Sustainable Development.

(b) Current State of the Environment of the Philippines.

SEC. 11. Reportorial Requirements. -

(a) All barangay GBs shall submit annual accomplishment and action reports to the Municipal/
City GB Federations on or before the second week of December of each year, in time for
the celebration of the “National Linggo ng Kabataan” pursuant to Republic Act No. 7160.
Copies of these reports should likewise be submitted to the corresponding Sangguniang
Kabataan or Pederasyon ng mga Sangguniang Kabataan.

(b) The Municipal/City GB Federations shall have the responsibility of collating and compiling
such reports and attaching these, or executive summaries thereof, to its own report to be
submitted to the National Green Brigade Coordinating Committee.

(c) The NGBCC through its Secretariat shall compile the reports from the Municipal/City GBs.
Such reports shall be consolidated into the NGBCC’s annual national report that shall be
submitted to the President on or before the end of March of the succeeding year.

SEC. 12. Institutional support and implementing rules.

(a) All local government units and national government agencies, most especially the DENR,
DILG and the NYC, shall cooperate to provide support for the formation and operations of
the Barangays GBs and the Municipal/City GB Federations.

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(b) Pursuant to its powers and functions under Section 9 and 10 of Republic Act No. 8044,
otherwise known as the Youth in Nation-Building Act, the NYC, in coordination and
consultation with the DENR, DILG, and the Pambansang Pederasyon ng mga Sangguniang
Kabataan, shall promulgate, not later than three (3) months from the effectivity of this
Executive Order, the implementing rules to form and institutionalize the barangay GBs and
the GB Federations at all levels as part of the Sangguniang
(b) Kabataan pursuant to this Executive Order. In the formulation of such implementing rules,
the provisions of Book VII, Chapter 2, Section 9(a) of Executive Order No. 292 (1987),
otherwise known as the Revised Administrative Code of 1987, shall be fully observed.

SEC. 13. Funding support. - The amount of five hundred thousand pesos (P500,000.00) is
hereby set aside for the current year from the savings and reserves of the Office of the President and
the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) for the organization, operationalization and
institutionalization of the Green Brigades, Green Brigade Federations, and the NGBCC and for the
formulation and promulgation of the implementing rules referred to in Section 13 above. Thereafter, the
funds necessary to support the operations of the NGBCC and of the NYC as the NGBCC Secretariat in
accordance with this Executive Order shall be included in the annual appropriations of the NYC.

SEC. 14. Repealing clause. - All executive issuances, orders, rules and regulations inconsistent
with this Executive Order are hereby revoked, amended or modified accordingly.

Sec. 15. Effectivity. - This Executive Order takes effect immediately.

Done in the City of Manila, this 29 th day of DEC., in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred and
ninety-eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RAMON B. CARDENAS

Acting Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 53

AMENDING EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 292, S. 1996, ENTITLED: “CONSTITUTING A
CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE TO ADVISE THE PRESIDENT IN THE APPOINTMENT
OF PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE OFFICIALS FROM THE RANK OF SENIOR
SUPERINTENDENT TO DIRECTOR GENERAL”.

WHEREAS, under existing laws, rules and regulations, the screening process before issuance
of Presidential appointments for senior police officers involve multifarious levels, specifically:
(1) evaluation by the PNP Senior Officers Placement and Promotion Board; (2) recommendation by the
Chief, PNP; (3) approval by the NAPOLCOM en banc; (4) indorsement by the CSC; and (5) review
and evaluation by the Consultative Committee;

WHEREAS, in order to expedite the issuance of urgent appointments by the President to
deserving and qualified senior police officers, it is imperative that the mechanisms involved in the
review and evaluation of such appointments be streamlined and its jurisdiction be limited within legal
parameters;

NOW, THEREFORE, I President Joseph E. Estrada, President of the Republic of the Philippines,
by virtue of the powers vested in me by the law, hereby order:

Section 1. Reorganization of Consultative Committee . - The Consultative Committee created
under Sec. 1 of Executive Order No. 292, s. 1996, is hereby reconstituted with the following
membership:

a) The Executive Secretary;

b) The Secretary, DILG/ Chairman, Napolcom;

c) One (1) member of the Senate to be designated by the Senate President;

d) One (1) member of the House of Representative to be designated by the Speaker of the
House;

e) Such other members as the President, in his discretion, may designate.

The Executive Secretary shall chair the Committee

Section 2. Discretion of the President to Immediately Issue Appointments in Certain Cases .
In urgent cases, or when so dictated by the exigency of the service, the President may issue such
appointment as may be necessary without the prior evaluation by, or consultation with, the
Consultative Committee; Provided, however, that immediately after the issuance of the appointment
the Consultative Committee shall be informed thereof accordingly. Provided, further, that no provision
in this Executive Order shall be constrained as limiting, amending, or otherwise altering the authority
of the President under provisions of existing law with respect to the appointment of Philippine
National Police officials.

Section 3. Effectivity . - This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 22 nd day of December, in the year of the Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety-eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA
EXECUTIVE SECRETARY

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). / Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 54

CREATING THE PASIG RIVER REHABILITATION COMMISSION

WHEREAS, the Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines mandates the State to protect
and promote the right of the people to balanced ecology and sustainable economy in accord with the
rhythm and harmony of nature;

WHEREAS, the people living near or along the Pasig River have the right to live in an
environment that is free from pollution and unsanitary conditions;

WHEREAS, the Pasig River has fast deteriorated because of poor waste management and disposal
by the factories and homes along its banks;

WHEREAS, the Pasig River is considered to be a vital ingredient in the transport of goods and
people and its rehabilitation will be beneficial for the development of Metro Manila and the country in
general;

WHEREAS, the Pasig River, because of its natural deep waters and strategic location remains a
viable alternative for decongesting the road network system of Metro Manila and its environs, thus
positively utilizing the River for commerce and industry;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

Section 1. Creation . The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission is hereby created to ensure that
the waterway is rehabilitated to its historically pristine condition conducive to transport, recreation
and tourism.

Sec. 2. Composition and Membership . The Commission shall be composed of the following:

a) The Secretary of the Department of Budget and Management who shall act as its Chairman;

The Chairman of the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) who shall act as its

Co-Chairman;

b) The Secretaries and Heads of the following agencies or their representatives as members;

1 . Office of the Executive Secretary

2. Department of Public Works and Highways

3. Department of Environment and Natural Resources

4. Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council

5. Department of Tourism

6. Department of Transportation and Communications

7. Department of Finance

Sec. 3. Powers and Functions . In order to achieve its mandate of rehabilitating the Pasig River, the
Commission shall have the following powers and functions;

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a. Draw up an updated and integrated Master Plan on the Rehabilitation of the Pasig River,
taking into account its potential for transportation, recreation and tourism;

b. Ensure that the easements provided for in the Civil Code and other related laws are observed
including all the esteros and waterways that drain into the Pasig River;

c. Integrate and coordinate all programs related to the rehabilitation of the Pasig River, such
as, but not limited to, the Pasig River Development Program (P.D. No. 274), Proclamation
No. 704, series of 1995 and the Pasig River Environmental Management and Rehabilitation
Sector Development Program, a continuation of the Pasig River Rehabilitation Program;

d. Abate the dumping of untreated industrial wastewater and sewerage into the river including
all acts and omission in violation of the Pollution Control Law and other related laws;

e. Relocate settlers, squatters and other unauthorized or unlawful occupants along its banks;

f Undertake civil works for the purpose, such as dredging, clearing of structures, cleaning of the
River and all the esteros and waterways that drain into it;

g. Submit regular reports to the Office of the President on the status of the government’s efforts
on the rehabilitation and development of the Pasig River;

h. Coordinate with all government agencies and offices, including local government units,
regarding the necessary measures to implement this Order;

The Commission shall formulate and adopt its implementing rules and regulations;

Sec. 4. Funding . The amount of ten million (P10,000,000.00) Pesos is hereby authorized to be
generated out of the contingency funds for the initial requirements of this Commission.

Sec. 5. Abolition of the Pasig River Development Council (PRDC). the Presidential Task Force on
Pasig River Rehabilitation (PTFPRR) and River Rehabilitation Secretariat (RRS) . The PRDC, PTFPRR
and the RRS are hereby abolished and its functions, equipment and logistics shall pertain to and be
assumed by the Commission. Any and all funds received by the abolished agencies as contributed to it
for the rehabilitation of the Pasig River shall be transferred to the Commission.

Sec. 6. Incentives to be Granted . The incentives provided for in PD 274 and other related laws are
hereby integrated as part of this Order.

Sec. 7. Repealing Clause . All orders, proclamations, rules, regulations, issuances or parts thereof,
which are inconsistent with any provision of this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified
accordingly.

Sec. 8. Effectivitv . This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, Philippines, this 06 th day of January, in the year of Our Lord,
Nineteen Hundred and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RAMON B. CARDENAS

Acting Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 55

ADJUSTING THE DIVIDEND RATES OF SELECTED GOVERNMENT-OWNED AND/
OR CONTROLLED CORPORATIONS ON THEIR 1997 NET EARNINGS PURSUANT TO
SECTION 5 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7656

WHEREAS, Section 1 of Republic Act No. 7656 provides that;

“Section 1. Declaration of policy. It is hereby declared the policy of the State that in order for
the National Government to realize additional revenues, government-owned and/or controlled
corporations without impairing their viability and the purposes for which they have been
established, shall share a substantial amount of their net earnings to the National Government.”

WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 5 of RA 7656, the Secretary of Finance recommended the
adjustment on the percentage of annual net earnings that shall be declared by the Development Bank
of the Philippines (DBP) in the interest of national economy and general welfare;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. The percentage of net earnings to be declared and remitted by the DBP as dividend
to the National Government as provided for under Section 3 of Republic Act 7656 is adjusted from at
least fifty percent (50%) to thirty percent (30%).

SEC. 2. The adjusted dividend rates provided for under Section 1 is only applicable on 1997 net
earnings of the concerned government-owned and/or controlled corporation.

SEC. 3. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 07 th day of January, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Nine.

By the President:

(Sgd.) RAMON B. CARDENAS

Acting Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 56

RULES APPLICABLE TO PROPERTY THAT CAN BE SOLD THROUGH PUBLIC AUCTION

BY THE BUREAU OF CUSTOMS

WHEREAS, there is a need to regulate the sale of property that will be sold through public
auction by the Bureau of Customs;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, do hereby order:

Section 1.

Section 2.

Section 3.
Section 4.

Section 5.

Section 6.

Section 7.
Section 8.

All articles subject to sale under Sec. 2601 to 2612 of the Customs and Tariff Code
shall be sold in accordance with such section and with the provisions of this Executive
Order.

No article subject to sale shall be sold unless the Commissioner of Customs had
submitted the list of items/lots and their minimum bid price for the approval of the
Secretary of Finance.

Items/Lots under Sec. 2 with minimum bid price of P50 Million shall be subject to
further approval by the President.

Only two public biddings within ten (10) days of each other, shall be held for the
items/lots approved by the Secretary of Finance and/or the President for sale. Any
change in the minimum bid price shall be subject to the approval of the Secretary of
Finance.

Within ten (10) days after every public auction, the Commissioner of Customs shall
prepare and submit to the Secretary of Finance a list of items/lots that were not sold
after two public auctions with a recommendation on their distribution or further sale
or disposition in accordance with the Tariff and Customs Code. Within ten (10) days
from receipt of the list and recommendation, the Secretary of Finance shall submit its
recommendation to the Office of the President for approval.

REPEALING CLAUSE. All executive orders, administrative orders, proclamations,
rules and regulations or parts thereof that are inconsistent with this Order are hereby
repealed or modified accordingly.

SEPARABILITY CLAUSE. If any provision of this Executive Order shall be held
unconstitutional, the other provisions shall not be affected.

EFFECTIVITY. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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Done in the City of Manila, this 08 th day of JANUARY, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

President of the Republic of the Philippines

By the President:

(Sgd.) RAMON B. CARDENAS

Acting Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 57

CREATING A SPECIAL HEARING DIVISION AND A TEAM OF PROSECUTORS IN
THE BUREAU OF CUSTOMS TO EXPEDITE SEIZURE PROCEEDINGS AND

PROSECUTE OFFENDERS

WHEREAS, there has been an increase in the number of smuggling cases that have deprived the
government of revenue;

WHEREAS, there are Collection Districts of the Bureau of Customs that need lawyers to act as
government prosecutors and hearing officers in seizure cases;

WHEREAS, government interest and that of the importers require that seizure proceedings be
conducted in an expeditious manner but without sacrificing the basic requirement of due process;

WHEREAS, the President of the Republic of the Philippines has the continuing power to
reorganize the National Government as provided under Presidential Decree No. 1416, as amended by
Presidential Decree No. 1772 and Executive Order No. 292, otherwise known as the Administrative
Code of 1987;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, PRESIDENT JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, do hereby order the
following:

Section 1. Declaration of Policy . It shall be the policy of the state to protect and develop the
national economy and general welfare by increasing the collection of government revenues, particularly
import duties and taxes, and the suppression of all forms of fraudulent practices and other violations
of the Tariff and Customs Code and other laws being enforced by the Bureau of Customs.

Section 2. The Special Hearing Division and Special Team of Prosecutors.

A. In order to carry out the foregoing policy, a Special Hearing Division under the Deputy

Commissioner for Revenue Collection and Monitoring is hereby created with the following

objectives:

1. To institute an orderly, fair and speedy conduct of seizure proceedings, particularly, when
they involve sensitive articles, or when the appraised value of the seized articles exceeds
Two Million Pesos (P2, 000, 000.00);

2. To establish and maintain the legality and integrity of the seizure proceedings; and

B. A Special Team of Prosecutors under the Deputy Commissioner for Intelligence and

Enforcement Group is likewise created with the following objectives:

1. To act as legal consultants to the Presidential Task Force Against Smuggling;

2. To evaluate evidence gathered by the task force and make a determination of whether or
not an infringement of the Tariff and Customs Code or related laws and regulation has
been committed;

3. To recommend for the issuance of Warrant of Seizure and Detention in appropriate cases
and coordinate with other prosecuting arms of the government in filing the appropriate

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administrative and criminal charges against persons responsible for the violation of the
Tariff and Customs Code or other laws implemented/enforced by the Bureau of Customs.

Section 3. Powers. Functions and Responsibilities

A. The Special Hearing Division shall have the following powers and functions:

1 . To call the parties to a pre-trial conference to enter into stipulations of facts and determine
the issues involved in the controversy;

2. To rule on motions made by either or both parties in the proceedings;

3. To issue interlocutory orders and subpoena duces tecum and subpoena ad testificandum;

4. To conduct expeditious, and if warranted, marathon hearings, the period of which shall
not exceed thirty (30) days;

5. To recommend to the Collector of Customs a decision within ten (10) days from the
completion or termination of the formal hearing, which decision shall be submitted to the
Collector of Customs concerned for his signature;

6. If the hearing officer deems it unnecessary to conduct a full trial on the controversy, he
may require the parties to submit their memoranda within a period of five (5) days and
he shall recommend a decision to the Collector of Customs within ten (10) days from the
submission of the pleadings. Motion for Extension of time to submit memoranda shall
not be allowed and shall be considered a prohibited motion.

B. The Special Team of Prosecutors shall likewise have the following powers and functions:

1 To conduct preliminary investigation and issue the necessary subpoenas to concerned
persons who may be potential witnesses in the Seizure Proceedings to be instituted against
the articles or goods involved in the unlawful importation or exportation;

2. To consult with the Legal Service, Bureau of Customs on matters involving appreciation
and evaluation of evidences as well as in the formulation of legal strategies to be used
during the actual hearing;

3. To recommend for the filing of appropriate administrative and criminal charges against
those individuals involved in the unlawful importation.

Section 4. Composition and Operational Control

A. The Special Hearing Division shall be under the direct control of the Deputy Commissioner
for Revenue Collection and Monitoring and shall be composed of at least six (6) members to
be selected from the Law Divisions of POM, NAIA and MICP upon the recommendation of
the respective Division Chiefs thereat.

All cases shall be assigned to each member on a rotation basis.

B. The Special Team of Prosecutors shall be directly under the Deputy Commissioner for
Intelligence and Enforcement Group who shall be composed of as many members depending
upon the volume of work and discretion of the said Deputy Commissioner.

The (Special Team of Prosecutors) shall be selected from the lawyers presently assigned at
the ESS, CISS and Legal Service.

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Section 5. Issuances of the Necessary CPO’s and Travel Order . It shall be the responsibility of the
Deputy Commissioner for Internal Administration Group to issue the required CPO’s and/or Travel
Order to the members of both the Special Hearing Division and Special Team of Prosecutors subject to
approval of the Secretary of Finance in accordance with Executive Order No. 47 dated December 8,
1998.

Section 6. Rights and Privileges . In view of the sensitive nature of their functions as herein before
provided, the members of the Special Hearing Division and Special Team of Prosecutors shall be
entitled to the following privilege:

a. Free transportation and hotel accommodation in cases where the hearing is to be held outside
Metro Manila;

b. Per diems at the rate authorized under existing regulations;

Hazard Pay and monthly allowance of P5,000.00 to be drawn from the budget appropriated
for this purpose by Bureau of Customs;

Section 7. Adoption of Customs Administrative Order No. The provision of Customs
Administrative Order No. is hereby adopted.

Section 8. Repeal by Modification . Any provision of administrative orders, memorandum orders
or other issuances inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

Section 9. Separability Clause . If any provision of this Executive Order shall be held
unconstitutional, the other provisions shall not be affected.

Section 10. Effectivitv . This Executive Order shall take effect after fifteen (15) days following the
completion of its publication in the Official Gazette or any newspaper of general circulation.

Done in the City of Manila this 09 th day of January, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RAMON B. CARDENAS

Acting Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999).
Presidential Management Staff.

[Executive Order Nos.:

338]. Manila:

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 58

CREATING A DOMESTIC TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL, DEFINING ITS
COMPOSITION, POWERS AND FUNCTIONS

WHEREAS, it is a standing policy of the government to ensure the development of business
sectors that are crucial to the delivery of basic services, and directly affect the livelihood and welfare of
our people;

WHEREAS, the government recognizes the need to boost efforts to promote the domestic
trade sector in view of its increasing importance to job generation, sustainable economic growth and
countryside development;

WHEREAS, the current economic situation warrants a vibrantly functioning domestic trade sector
to ensure sustained economic growth and correspondingly address the economic goals of productivity
in business, increased employment through systematic countrywide enterprise development on the
grass-root level and enhanced income-generating capabilities for our people;

WHEREAS, there is a need to integrate government and private sector efforts to create a business
climate that will foster the growth of domestic trade as foundation for sound and equitable economic
growth;

WHEREAS, there is a need to make available and to vigorously develop the structure and policy
environment that is conductive to value-adding marketing, efficient distribution of domestic products
and services;

WHEREAS, there is a pressing need to maintain a comprehensive information system of domestic
products and services, and the systematic monitoring of domestic policy trade policy directives at the
highest level by both the government and the private sector;

WHEREAS, there is an urgent reason to establish a high-level body to bring together key decision-
makers to provide strategic direction and specific programs, prescribe interventions and coherent
guidance to the development and promotion of domestic trade;

WHEREAS, the issuance of this Executive Order is an essential component to the national
economic recovery program to study and overcome problems related to domestic trade sector;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order the creation of the
DOMESTIC TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL under the following provisions:

Section 1. Composition. The Domestic Trade Development Council shall be composed of the following:

a. Secretary of Trade and Industry

b. Private Sector Representative

c. Executive Secretary

d. Secretary of Agriculture

e. Secretary of Finance

f. Secretary of Public Works and Highways

g. Secretary of Labor and Employment

Chairman

Co-Chairman

Member

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h. Secretary of Interior and Local Government

Secretary of Transportation and Communication
Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources
k. Director General of the National Economic Development Authority
Administrator of the National Statistics Office

m. Two (2) Representatives each from the three (3) Trading Sectors:
Distribution, Wholesaling and Retailing

n. The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry

o. One (1) Representative each from the three (3) allied sectors:
Manufacturing, Agricultural Producer’s, and Development Banking

Member

Members

Member

Members

The representatives from the private sector shall be appointed by the President, upon the
recommendation of the Secretary of Trade and Industry and shall hold office for a period of three
(3) years. When a vacancy in the private sector arises due to the resignation, death or incapacity of a
member, a replacement who shall serve for the remainder of the member’s term of office shall likewise
be appointed by the President upon the recommendation of the Secretary of Trade and Industry.

Other Cabinet Secretaries may be called upon to attend Council meetings and assist the Council
resolve issues and problems that concern their respective offices.

Section 2. Powers and Functions. The Council shall:

a. Develop, promulgate and implement programs, projects and measures to promote all aspects
of domestic trade geared towards increasing productivity and the efficient distribution of
domestic goods and services in the domestic market; and to help bring down the final cost of
goods at the consumption level; and attain global competitiveness in this respect.

b. Periodically review and assess the country’s domestic trade performance;

c. Formulate plans and programs that will facilitate the establishment of an integrated market
information system and efficient dissemination of relevant and accurate market information;

d. Identify the main bottlenecks, problem areas and constraints in all areas/sectors/activities
influencing domestic trade including but not limited to such matters as physical infrastructure,
policy framework, finance, specialized support services, production, promotion, marketing
and human resources;

e. Provide advice and direction on specific measures required to remove bottlenecks/problems
constraining the development of domestic trade in any of the areas mentioned in d as well
as to recommend regulatory measures for the purpose of establishing efficiencies in domestic
trade;

f. Create such sub-committees and task forces as may be necessary.

Section 3. Secretariat. The Council shall be assisted by a Secretariat based in the Department of
Trade and Industry, headed by an official designated by the Chairman of the Council, together with
personnel from government agencies and private sectors represented in the Council who shall be
assigned to the Secretariat.

Section 4. Meetings. The Council shall meet once a month, and at least once every quarter with
the President; provided, that whenever the President and/or the Chairman deem it necessary, either the
President or the Chairman may convene the Council.

Section 5. Funding. Funding of activities and operational expenses of the Council shall be
supported by contributions from the government and the private sector. The seed capital in an amount

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recommended by the Department of Trade and Industry, upon consultation with the Department of
Budget and Management, and approved by the President shall be taken from the Contingent Fund of
the President. Thereafter, the annual contributions of the government shall be included in the annual
General Appropriations Act after consultations with the Department of Budget and Management.

Section 6. Effectivity. This order shall take effect immediately.

Done in the City of Manila, this 27 th day of DECEMBER, in the year of our Lord, nineteen
hundred and ninety-eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RAMON B. CARDENAS

Acting Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 59

DIRECTING THE PHILIPPINE PORTS AUTHORITY TO ADOPT AND IMPLEMENT A
PROGRAM FOR FURTHER RATIONALIZATION, MODERNIZATION AND IMPROVEMENT
OF PORT SERVICES AND FACILITIES IN GOVERNMENT PORTS

WHEREAS, the government recognizes the vital role which sea transport plays to provide
livelihood, ensure more economical means of transportation to the public, encourage travel and
tourism and spur regional development and inter-island trade and commerce;

WHEREAS, Section 2 of Presidential Decree No. 857, otherwise known as the revised charter
of the Philippine Ports Authority, mandates the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) to implement an
integrated program for the planning, development, financing and operation of ports;

WHEREAS, despite this mandate of the PPA, the limited resources of the government has
prevented the provision of world class facilities in government ports;

WHEREAS, the private sector has manifested its willingness and capability to invest in the
modernization and improvement of port services and facilities in government ports;

WHEREAS, the present state of major and vital government ports adversely affects the poor
sector of society and the general public as well as impedes the rapid development and promotion of
ports for coastwise and international trade and commerce;

WHEREAS, there is now a pressing need to immediately implement effective government
policies and focus the efforts of government agencies concerned to achieve the desired rationalization,
modernization and improvement of port services and facilities within the framework of Presidential
Decree No. 857;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1 Policy on port facilities and services.

It is the policy of the government to pursue an accelerated program for the modernization and
development of government ports in partnership with the private sector, especially those presently
providing facilities and services in the ports.

Towards this end, the PPA shall effect the unification and rationalization of facility operators and
service providers in government ports, encourage a more aggressive investment in port infrastructure,
equipment and facilities and for labor to share in the benefits of the development and modernization of
the port.

SEC. 2. Unification and rationalization of all facility operators and service providers.

Pursuant to the policy above stated, the PPA shall immediately adopt and implement a program
for integration, unification and rationalization of all facility operators and service providers in ports
initially with high passenger and cargo volume, including the North Harbor in the Port of Manila.
Toward this end, the PPA shall:

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(a) Require all existing facility operators and service providers such as cargo handling operators,
shipping companies and port workers and labor to unify into one corporation by merger, consolidation,
buyout, joint venture, or by any other similar means;

(b) Allow other qualified facility operators and service providers to invest in and join the
unified contractor, provided that (i) these other contractors shall provide needed technical or
management expertise, or contribute capital equipment or financial resources for the operation and
development of port services and facilities or generate significant transshipment traffic, and (ii) no
single corporation shall be allowed to own more than 30% of the outstanding capital stock of a
unified operator in a port, except in the port where such corporation has an existing permit, cargo
handling license, or operating contract from the PPA or where the vessels of the investor shipping
company regularly call;

(c) Exercise its authority under its charter to grant the unified contractor a contract to manage,
operate and develop the entire government port without need of a public bidding;

(d) Require the unified contractor to adopt and approve the terms and conditions of a stock
option plan which shall reserve for labor and employees of the unified contractor, including those who
may be retrenched due to redundancy five percent (5%) of its total outstanding capital stock;

Not later than the beginning of the fifth year of its contract, the unified contractor shall start a
divestment program offering at least 30% of its authorized capital stock to the public.

(e) Complete the unification of facility operators and service providers as set forth in this
executive order within twelve (12) months from the time the port is declared by PPA for modernization;

SEC. 3. Functions and responsibilities of the unified contractor.

The unified contractor shall have, among others, the following functions and responsibilities
under its contract to manage, operate and develop an entire government port:

(a) Provide all the port services such as the allocation of berths to vessels and the management
of berths, tug assistance, cargo and passenger handling, carnage, marshalling, yard and transit storage,
warehousing, weighing, checking and surveying, porterage, port security, supply of fuel and water,
bunker and candling supply, and others required by the users and clients of the port, including the
supply of necessary equipment and materials, and collect such corresponding fees and charges as may
be approved by PPA.

(b) Grant subleases of port areas and buildings to various port users, clients and service
companies or in general, undertake overall management of the port real estate and other port facilities,
and collect rents due therefrom.

(c) Undertake repairs and maintenance (including maintenance dredging of its immediate
berthing areas and turning basin) of all existing and future facilities, fixtures and equipment at its own
account.

(d) Finance and physically develop, subject to approval by the authority, the horizontal and
vertical infrastructure of the port, including capital dredging at its own account.

In every case where PPA determines a need for passenger terminal facilities, construction thereof
shall commence within six (6) months from the effectivity of its contract and must be operational
within the second year of said contract.

(e) Undertake activities to attract new port clients and promote additional business for the port.

(f) Provide personnel, equipment and systems for the security of cargoes, equipment and
facilities, as well as control the entry and exit of vehicles and persons in its delineated operational area.

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SEC. 4. Functions retained by PPA.

Notwithstanding the award of management, operation and development of the port to the unified
contractor, the PPA shall continue to perform therein its regulatory functions and exercise the following
inherent duties:

(a) Approve the master and development plan of the ports in support to the national port
planning and development thrusts;

(b) Prescribe and enforce operating service and safety standards;

(d) Be responsible for harbor traffic management and the regulation of pilotage services;

(e) Collect port and vessel charges due to the government;

(f) Conduct periodic audit of the operations of the operator;

(g) Monitor compliance with the terms and conditions of the contract; and

(h) Maintain its police functions.

Minimum terms and conditions of the contract,
contract shall contain the following minimum terms and conditions:

(a) Notwithstanding the award of its management, operation and the development to the
unified contractor, the port shall continue to be operated as common user, multi-purpose facility.

(b) The unified contractor shall pay to the PPA a government share or a fixed contract fee
with an escalation rate for the succeeding years. In addition, and in order for government to share
in the growth and development of the port, the unified contractor shall pay a variable fee to
PPA which shall be a certain percentage of its revenue from operations based on cargo ton, gross
revenue or some other parameters.

(d) The unified contractor shall be jointly and severally liable for the payment of vessel and
port charges due to the PPA from its port users and clients.

(e) Upon expiration of the initial terms of the contract or in the event of its termination
or cancellation prior to its expiration by the unified contractor, all existing permanent or semi-
permanent improvements, structures, buildings and facilities constructed by or belonging to the
unified contractor and situated in its delineated operational area shall automatically become
the property of the government without any obligation to reimburse, free from any lien or
encumbrances.

(f) The unified contractor shall comply with all laws, rules and regulations, and issuances.
SEC. 6. Protection of labor.

In implementing the foregoing mandate, the PPA shall ensure the protection of labor and
their legitimate rights under the law. The existing cargo handling or other service operators shall be
primarily responsible for the past service benefits and retirement/separation benefits of their employees
and contractual workers. In the event the operator is insolvent, the unified contractor shall assume the
obligation of paying such labor benefits, without prejudice to its right of recourse against the insolvent
operator.

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SEC. 7. Absorption of labor.

Subject to its own qualification standards, the unified contractor shall absorb into its operations
and manpower pool the labor force of the existing operators whose contracts and services shall have
been taken over. If the actual operational requirements show a need to reduce the labor force, the
unified contractor, before resorting to any other legal remedy or action, shall offer to the employees
concerned (a) a voluntary retirement program, (b) a viable skills training or retraining program to
allow them to be assigned in any vacant positions in the company, and/or other post-employment
assistance programs upon such terms and conditions consistent with labor laws or the provisions
of applicable collective bargaining agreements, whichever shall be more favorable to the employees
seeking voluntary retirement.

The unified contractor shall be required to respect existing collective bargaining agreements to
provide contractual benefits under such collective bargaining agreements as well as those found in
existing labor laws.

SEC. 8. Social amelioration fund.

The PPA, under such terms and conditions it may prescribe, shall require the unified contractor
to immediately establish, upon the commencement of its operations, a social amelioration fund for the
benefit of legitimate port labor.

SEC. 9. Inter-modal transportation plan.

The DOTC shall prepare, in coordination with the Department of Public Works and Highways,
the Philippine National Railways, the Light Rail Transit Authority, the PPA and other relevant agencies,
a master plan to develop an inter-modal transportation system which would connect high passenger
and cargo volume ports to mass transport systems and facilities such as the rail system, to facilitate the
efficient and safe movement of passenger and cargo.

SEC. 10. Other agencies support.

All government departments, offices, agencies, instrumentalities, including government-owned
and controlled corporations are hereby ordered to support and assist the PPA in the implementation of
this executive order.

SEC. 11. Implementing Rules.

The PPA shall issue the necessary rules and regulations to implement this executive order, except
for the implementation of Sections 8 and 9 of this Executive Order which shall be handled by the
DOTC.

SEC. 12. Repealing Clause.

This executive order repeals or amends all executive, department and other agency issuances or
any provision thereof inconsistent herewith.

SEC. 13. Separability.

If any provision of this executive order is declared invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, it
shall not adversely affect any other provision of this executive order.

SEC. 14. Effectivity.

This executive order shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in a newspaper of
general circulation.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 28th day of December, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety Eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 60

TRANSFERRING THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION FROM THE
DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE TO THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT

WHEREAS, this administration is committed to pursue a stronger policy of encouraging a more
active participation of private corporations and enterprises in the development of the domestic capital
market and the promotion of foreign investments;

WHEREAS, there is a need to have a more efficient and more effective coordination between the
Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), now under the supervision of the Department of Finance,
and other offices of government to enable SEC to perform its mandated functions consistent with this
national policy and objective;

WHEREAS, Presidential Decree No. 902-A, the charter of the Securities and Exchange
Commission (SEC), mandates that the said Commission shall be under the “direct general supervision
of the President;”

WHEREAS, Section 31, Chapter 10, Title HI, Book III of the Administrative Code of 1987,
provides continuing authority in the President to reorganize the administrative structure of the Office
of the President;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. The Securities and Exchange Commission is hereby transferred from the Department
of Finance to the Office of the President, which shall henceforth exercise direct administrative
supervision over the SEC.

SEC. 2. The Office of the President, consistent with the provisions of Presidential Decree No. 902-A
and as may be authorized under Section 38, Chapter 7, Title III, Book IV of the Administrative Code,
shall assume all oversight and other functions, administrative and otherwise, over the SEC. Therefore,
matters not expressly appealable to the Court of Appeals under present circulars of the Supreme Court
of the Philippines are hereby declared appealable to the Office of the President.

SEC. 3. All orders, issuances, rules and regulations, or parts thereof which are inconsistent with
this Executive Order are repealed or modified accordingly.

SEC. 4. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 13th day of January, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 61

CREATING THE NATIONAL DRUG LAW ENFORCEMENT AND PREVENTION
COORDINATING CENTER TO ORCHESTRATE EFFORTS OF NATIONAL GOVERNMENT
AGENCIES, LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS, AND NON-GOVERNMENT ORGANIZATIONS
FOR A MORE EFFECTIVE ANTI-DRUG CAMPAIGN

WHEREAS, the present drug abuse problem has reached a disturbing level, with 6,020 barangays
affected out of the 42,979 barangays nationwide, 1.7 million drug victims reported and the illegal drug
trade estimated to have reached P250 Billion pesos in 1998;

WHEREAS, in the 1996 survey by the National Youth Commission (NYC), seven percent (7%)
of the Filipino youth aged 15 to 29 years old are drug abusers;

WHEREAS, about seventy percent (70%) of brutal and heinous crimes committed were reported
to be drug-related;

WHEREAS, despite sustained and resolute enforcement of the Dangerous Drugs Law, drug
syndicates continue to produce, smuggle, and distribute dangerous drugs, thereby undermining not
only the peace and order program of the government but also its efforts to improve the social and
economic condition of the people;

WHEREAS, demand for prohibited drugs continues unabated due to existing insufficiency in
public information, awareness, education and treatment of drug dependents;

WHEREAS, RA 6425 as amended, created the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) composed of eight
(8) ex-officio members, as the policy-making and regulatory body in the prevention and control of
drug abuse in the country;

WHEREAS, at the operation level, several government agencies are individually participating in
drug law enforcement activities, including the implementation of DDB policies and programs, with
unsatisfactory results due to perceived weaknesses and lack of orchestration of their efforts;

WHEREAS, in order to have a holistic approach, there is a need to strengthen and coordinate
the demand reduction and prevention campaign, education, information, and national treatment and
rehabilitation programs of the government.

WHEREAS, the Administrative Code of 1987 vests the President with the continuing authority
to reorganize the Office of the President and to transfer functions from one department or agency to
another; and

WHEREAS, the seriousness of the drug-related problems in the country requires the immediate
establishment of a National Drug Law Enforcement and Prevention Coordinating Center (NDLEPCC)
under the Office of the President especially tasked to orchestrate and consolidate the drug law
enforcement and prevention efforts of national government agencies, Local Government Units (LGU’s),
and Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) to have a more effective anti-illegal drug campaign at
the national down to barangay levels.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

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SECTION 1. CREATION AND COMPOSITION. There is hereby created a National Drug Law
Enforcement and Prevention Coordinating Center under the Office of the President. The Center shall
be headed by the Secretary of the Interior and Local Government as Chairman; with the Chief of the
Philippine National Police as Vice-Chairman; and Task Force Chief of the Presidential Anti-Organized
Crime Task Force; Chairman of the Dangerous Drugs Board; Director of the National Bureau of
Investigations; Commissioner of the Bureau of Immigration; Chief of the National Prosecution Service;
and Commissioner of the Bureau of Customs as members.

The Coordinating Center shall be manned by a Secretariat headed by an Executive Director to
be appointed by the Chairman. The Executive Director shall possess adequate training and experience
in the field of dangerous drugs, or in law enforcement, law, medicine, criminology, psychology or
social work. He shall be assisted by a Functional Staff composed of Administrative/Logistics Division,
Intelligence and Investigation Division, Plans and Operations Division, Community Involvement
Division, Prosecution and Legal Division and International Cooperation Division. Selected personnel
and representatives from the different participating agencies shall be assigned to the Center.

The Chairman may call upon any government agency to render assistance in the accomplishment
of the Center’s mandated tasks and functions.

SECTION 2. POWERS AND FUNCTIONS OF THE NATIONAL DRUG LAW
ENFORCEMENT AND PREVENTION COORDINATING CENTER (NDLEPCC).

a. Prepare and fast track the implementation of the inter-agency anti-drug action plan;

b. Prepare intelligence and counter-intelligence plans and programs to identify personalities and /
or groups and their cohorts who are involved in the illegal drugs activities. In this regard,
the Center may, in coordination with the DDB, and subject to existing laws, grant monetary
rewards or incentives to informants who have given vital information leading to the successful
prosecution of illegal drug personalities;

c. As the Center may deem proper, coordinate and collaborate with any government and non-
government organizations with regard to intelligence, investigation and speedy prosecution
of all illegal drug related cases. Towards this end, the Center may enlist the assistance of
any department, bureau, office, agency or instrumentality of the Government, including
government-owned and/or controlled corporations, in the anti-illegal drugs drive, which
may include the use of their respective personnel, facilities, and resources for a more resolute
detection and investigation of drug-related crimes and prosecution of the drug traffickers;

d. Coordinate with the Department of Justice Witness Protection Security and Benefits Program
Committee to evaluate and assess witnesses who may qualify under the provisions of
RA 6981, otherwise known as the Witness Protection and Benefits Act;

e. Formulate and implement plans and programs for international cooperation on intelligence
and investigation relative to drug trafficking and prevention.

Coordinate and orchestrate the support and participation of Local Government Units (LGUs)
and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in the anti-drugs campaign down to the
barangay level;

g. Recommend the enactment of appropriate anti-illegal drugs laws and issuances;

h. Perform such other tasks and functions as the President of the Republic of the Philippines
may direct; and

Coordinate and collaborate with the DDB with regard to demand reduction, rehabilitation,
education and information programs.

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SECTION 3. PARTICIPATING AGENCIES. The designated representatives of the following
Government Agencies and instrumentalities shall participate and assist the Center:

a. Department of Health

b. Department of Justice

c. Department of National Defense

d. Department of Education, Culture and Sports

e. Department of Finance

f. Department of Social Welfare and Development

g. Department of Labor and Employment

h. Dangerous Drugs Board

i. Philippine Information Agency

j. Philippine National Police

k. National Bureau of Investigation
National Prosecution Service

m. Bureau of Customs

n. Bureau of Immigration

o. Bureau of Internal Revenue

p. National Intelligence Coordinating Agency

q. Armed Forces of the Philippines

Economic Intelligence and Investigation Bureau

s. Philippine Coast Guard

t. Philippine Postal Corporation

u. Other agencies, as needed

SECTION 4. RULES AND REGULATIONS. The National Drug Law Enforcement and
Prevention Coordinating Center (NDLEPCC) shall promulgate rules and regulations to implement this
Order.

SECTION 5. FUNDING. Subject to auditing regulations, The National Drug Law Enforcement
and Prevention Coordinating Center (NDLEPCC) shall be provided with an initial allocation of
ONE HUNDRED FIFTY MILLION PESOS (P150, 000, 000.00) to be drawn from the President’s
Contingency Fund. Appropriations for the succeeding years shall be incorporated in the annual budget
proposal for the Office of the President.

SECTION 6. EFFECTIYITY. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 15 th day of JANUARY, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 62

CREATING THE PHILIPPINE CENTER ON TRANSNATIONAL CRIME TO FORMULATE
AND IMPLEMENT A CONCERTED PROGRAM OF ACTION OF ALL LAW ENFORCEMENT,
INTELLIGENCE AND OTHER AGENCIES FOR THE PREVENTION AND CONTROL OF

TRANSNATIONAL CRIME

WHEREAS, organized transnational crime, such as illicit trafficking of narcotic drugs and
psychotropic substances, money laundering, terrorism, arms smuggling, trafficking in persons,
and piracy, have created a significant impact on the political, economic and socio-cultural stability
and security of the country;

WHEREAS, the mission, functions and responsibilities of government agencies such as the
National Action Committee on Anti-Hijacking and Anti-Terrorism (NACAHT), Presidential Anti-
Organized Crime Task Force (PAOCTF), Presidential Anti-Smuggling Task Force (PASTF), Philippine
National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI),
National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM), Department of the Interior and Local Government
(DILG), Department of Justice (DOJ), Department of Finance (DOF), National Intelligence
Coordinating Agency (NICA), Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC),
Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB), Bureau of Customs (BOC), Bureau of Immigration (BI), Economic
Intelligence and Investigation Bureau (EIIB), and other concerned offices need to be linked, coordinated
and complemented to effectively combat transnational crime;

WHEREAS, the growing sophistication of transnational crime demands a concerted,
synchronized and focused effort from all law enforcement, intelligence and other concerned agencies of
the government;

WHEREAS, the establishment of a presidential body is necessary to concretize cooperation,
concerted operations and data resource sharing between and among local agencies and with foreign
countries and international organizations involved in the crusade against said menace;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. ORGANIZATION . The Philippine Center on Transnational Crime (PCTC) is
hereby created under the Office of the President to formulate and implement a concerted program
of action of all law enforcement, intelligence and other government agencies for the prevention and
control of transnational crime. It shall be placed under the general supervision and control of the
National Police Commission.

SECTION 2. COMPOSITION AND LEADERSHIP . The Center shall be headed by the Executive
Director to be appointed by the President and shall have the following Directorates:

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Directorate for Operations;

2. Directorate for Plans and Programs;

3. Directorate for Research;

4. Directorate for Technology Management;

5. Directorate for Administration and Finance; and

6. Other Directorates that may be created as the situation demands.

SECTION 3. POWERS AND FUNCTIONS . The Center shall have the following powers and
functions:

1 To establish, through the use of modern information and telecommunications technology,
a shared central database among government agencies for information on criminals,
methodologies, arrests and convictions on the following transnational crime:

l.a illicit trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances;

l.b money laundering;

l.c terrorism;

l.d arms smuggling;

1 .e trafficking in persons;

1 .f piracy; and

l.g other crimes that have an impact on the stability and security of the country;

2. To supervise and control conduct of anti-transnational crime operations of all government
agencies and instrumentalities;

3. To establish a central database on national as well as international legislation and
jurisprudence on transnational crime, with the end in view of recommending measures to
strengthen responses and provide immediate intervention for the prevention, detection and
apprehension of criminals operating in the country;

4. To establish a center for strategic research on the structure and dynamics of transnational
organized crime in all its forms, predict trends and analyze relationships of given factors for
the formulation of individual and collective strategies for the prevention and detection of
transnational organized crime and for the apprehension of criminal elements involved;

5. To design programmes and projects aimed at enhancing national capacity-building in
combating transnational crime, as well as supporting the related programmes and projects of
other ASEAN and international centers;

6. To explore and coordinate information exchanges and training with other government
agencies, foreign countries and international organizations involved in the combat against
transnational crime;

7. To select personnel from within the NAPOLCOM, PNP and other government agencies for
detail with the PCTC;

8. To enlist the assistance of any department, bureau, office, agency or instrumentality of the
government, including government-owned or controlled corporations, to carry out its
functions, including the use of their respective personnel, facilities and resources; and

9. To perform such functions and carry out such activities as may be directed by the President.

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SECTION 4. OFFENSES COVERED . The PCTC shall have the authority to take cognizance of
the following transnational crimes:

a. illicit trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances;

b. money laundering;

c. terrorism;

d. arms smuggling;

e. trafficking in persons;

f. piracy; and

g. other crimes that have an impact on the stability and security of the country

SECTION 5. ASSISTANCE FROM GOVERNMENT AGENCIES . The PCTC shall be assisted
by the following government agencies and instrumentalities:

a. Philippine National Police (PNP);

b. National Bureau of Investigation (NBI);

c. National Action Committee on Anti-Hijacking and Anti-Terrorism (NACAHT);

d. Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Task Force (PAOCTF);

e. Presidential Anti-Smuggling Task Force (PASTF);

f. National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM);

g. Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG);

h. Department of Justice (DOJ);

Department of Finance (DOF);

Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC);
k. Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB);

National Prosecution Service (NPS);

m. Bureau of Immigration and Deportation (BID);

n. Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR);

o. Economic Intelligence and Investigation Bureau (EIIB);

p. Bureau of Customs (BOC);

q. National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA);

r. Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP);

s. Land Transportation Office (LTO);

t. National Telecommunications Commission (NTC);

u. National Statistics and Census Office (NSCO); and

v Other government agencies which the PCTC may find necessary to implement its mandate.

SECTION 6. COMMAND AND CONTROL . The command and control of the PCTC shall be
as follows:

a. The PCTC Executive Director shall report and be responsible to the President through the
Secretary of Interior and Local Government;

b. The PCTC Executive Director shall have immediate supervision and control over all units of
the PCTC. He is authorized to designate duties and functions of all units and personnel of the
PCTC;

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c. The PCTC Executive Director shall have direct operational and supervisory authority over
personnel and resources detailed with the PCTC from government agencies concerned.

SECTION 7. OPERATING GUIDELINES . The PCTC shall adopt, in coordination with other
concerned agencies, such operating guidelines as may be necessary to implement this Executive Order,
subject to the approval of the President. It shall submit to the President reports of its activities with
appropriate recommendations for the information and consideration of the President.

SECTION 8. COORDINATING INSTRUCTIONS . The intent of this issuance is to put strong
and intensified focus against organized transnational crime which will be addressed by the PCTC in
the course of the government’s anti-crime campaign, while the Philippine National Police (PNP) shall
continue to be the primary general law enforcement agency of the country pursuant to Republic Act
No. 6975, as amended. Accordingly, close coordination and cooperation shall be undertaken by the
Executive Director of PCTC, the Chief, PNP and the heads of other concerned government agencies,
to insure synergy in the overall anti-transnational crime campaign. Vertical and lateral coordination
among operating units, consistent with the security need to prevent compromise in police operations, is
hereby enjoined.

SECTION 9. FUNDING . Subject to government accounting and auditing procedures, the
PCTC shall be provided with an initial annual allocation of ONE EIUNDRED MILLION PESOS
(P100, 000, 000. 00) for CY 1999, to be drawn from the President’s Contingency Fund and from
government savings. Appropriations for the succeeding years shall be incorporated in the budget
proposal of the Office of the President.

SECTION 10. EFFECTIVITY . This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 15 th day of JANUARY, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1
Presidential Management Staff.

338]. Manila:

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MALACANAN PALACE
MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 63

MODIFYING THE NOMENCLATURE AND THE RATES OF IMPORT DUTY ON CERTAIN
IMPORTED ARTICLES UNDER SECTION 104 OF THE TARIFF AND CUSTOMS CODE
OF 1978, (PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1464, AS AMENDED)

WHEREAS, the economic crisis besetting the country makes it necessary to provide temporary
relief from the difficulties being suffered by domestic industries;

WHEREAS, the currency depreciation spawned by the crisis requires some action to cushion
industries against surges of low-priced imports;

WHEREAS, Section 401 of the Tariff and Customs Code of 1978, as amended, empowers
the President to increase, reduce or remove existing rates of duty, as well as to modify the tariff
nomenclature;

WHEREAS, while encouraging duty-free importation of slabs and scraps will increase the
competitiveness of the dominant steel producer and enable it to share the benefits to downstream users,
it is nevertheless the desire of the government to ensure that the duty on hot-rolled coils (HRC) tariffs
at 7% not be a hindrance to the efficiency of downstream flat product producers, such that, if HRC
capacity utilization of National Steel Corporation (NSC) is not sustained at a level of at least 50%
from July 1, 1999, tariff rate on HRC will go down to 3%;

WHEREAS, the Iron and Steel Industry Act (RA 7103) provides that the National Economic
and Development Authority (NEDA) shall recommended to the appropriate authority a rational
tariff structure that shall enhance the viability of the industry, specifically tariff rates on imported raw
materials, such that NEDA now invokes its prerogative and recommends that DTI/BOI, as the lead
agencies for the development of the industry, shall accredit legitimate importers/users of low carbon
and high carbon steel wire rods who are to enjoy such tariff incentive on the importation of steel wire
rods at 3% tariff rate:

NOW, THEREFORE, I JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. The articles specifically listed in “Annex A” hereof, as classified under Sectionl04
of the Tariff and Customs Code of 1978, as amended, shall be subject to the rates of import duty in
accordance with the schedule indicated opposite each article.

SECTION 2. The Nomenclature and the rates of import duty on tariff headings not enumerated
and those listed but represented by the symbol “x x x” shall remain in force and effect.

SECTION 3. Upon effectivity of the Executive Order, the articles specifically listed in the aforesaid
“Annex” which are entered in or withdrawn from warehouse in the Philippines for consumption shall
be levied the rates of duty herein prescribed.

SECTION 4. All other Presidential issuances, administrative rules and regulations, or parts
thereof, which are inconsistent with this Executive Order are hereby revoked or modified accordingly.

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SECTION 5. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately following the complete
publication in two (2) newspapers of general circulation in the Philippines.

Done in the City of Manila, this 15 th day of JAN., in the year of our Lord Nineteen Elundred and
Ninety Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Reference: Annex

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 64

PROVIDING FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A BUDGET DIALOGUE GROUP

WHEREAS, the Government is committed to bring down the budget deficit to manageable levels
and ensure a prudent expenditure program in order to hasten our recovery from the Asian currency crisis;

WHEREAS, the Government is further committed to consult and work closely with members of
Congress, business sector, and other representatives of civil society to attain these objectives;

WHEREAS, the Ten-Point Agenda of the Estrada Administration provided for the establishment
of a Budget Dialogue Group that will recommend comprehensive budget reforms and other measures
to attain fiscal discipline and efficient resource allocation.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order the following:

SECTION 1. Establishment of a Budget Dialogue Group . A Budget Dialogue Group is hereby
constituted to formulate and recommend to the President the necessary budget reforms and measures
to ensure fiscal integrity and efficiency.

SECTION 2. Composition . The Group shall be chaired by the Secretary of the Department of
Budget and Management with the following as members:

Secretary, Department of Agriculture as Chairman of Cabinet Cluster A (Agri-Industrial
Development Cluster)

2. Secretary, Department of Finance as Chairman of Cabinet Cluster B (Macroeconomy and
Finance)

3. Director-General, National Economic and Development Authority as Chairman of Cabinet
Cluster C (Human Resource Development Cluster)

4. Secretary, Department of Public Works and Highways as representative of Cabinet Cluster D
(Physical Infrastructure Cluster)

5. Secretary, Department of Foreign Affairs as Chairman of Cabinet Cluster E (National Security
and Political Development)

6. President, League of Provinces

7. President, League of Cities

8. President, League of Municipalities

9. Private sector representatives consisting of the following:

a. One representative each from the following business chambers: Philippine Chamber
of Commerce and Industry, Makati Business Club, Management Association of the
Philippines, and Bankers Association of the Philippines

b. One representative from organized labor groups

c. Two representatives from the other basic sectors

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It is understood that the members of the Group shall represent the perspectives of their respective
constituencies.

Upon concurrence of the Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives, the
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance and the Chairman of the House Committee
on Appropriations shall also be members of the Group. The President shall appoint the
representatives from the private sector.

SECTION 4. Functions . The Group shall have the following functions:

1 Formulate and recommend to the President the necessary budget-related measures to ensure
fiscal integrity and efficiency;

2 Serve as mechanism for discussion of issues on budget matters and other fiscal concerns;

3. Submit quarterly reports to the President; and

4. Perform such other functions and duties as the President may assign from time to time.

SECTION 5. Technical Working Group . The Group may establish inter-agency technical working
groups to assist in the formulation of the necessary budget reforms and other measures, and to support
other activities of the Group.

SECTION 6. Assistance From Other Agencies . The Chairman may call on any government
agency to provide assistance and support to the activities of the Group.

SECTION 7. Secretariat Support . The Department of Budget and Management shall provide
overall administrative and technical support to the Group.

SECTION 8. Frequency of Meetings . The Group shall hold quarterly meetings or as often as may
be necessary.

SECTION 9. Repealing Clause . All issuances, order, rules, regulations or parts thereof which are
inconsistent with the provisions of this Order is hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

SECTION 10. Effectivitv . This Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE, in the city of Manila, on this 15 th day of January, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen
hundred and ninety-nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

President of the Philippines

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 65

AMENDING EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 54, SERIES OF 1999

WHEREAS, it is important to include the private sector in the Pasig River Rehabilitation
Commission to get their inputs in the Commission’s planning and their assistance in implementing the
same;

WHEREAS, the rehabilitation of the Pasig River involves coordinated and sustained efforts from
both the government and the private sector;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by the Constitution, do hereby order:

Section 1. Amendment to Section 2. - Section 2 of Executive Order No. 54, Series of 1999 is
hereby amended to be read as follows:

“Section 2. Composition and Membership . The Commission shall be composed of the following:

a. The Secretary of the Department of Budget and Management or his duly authorized

representative who shall act as its Chairman; The Chairman of the Metro Manila

Development Authority (MMDA) or his duly authorized representative who shall act as its

Co-Chairman;

b. The Secretaries and Heads of the following agencies or their respective representatives as

members;

1 . Department of Public Works and Highways

2. Department of Environment and Natural Resources

3. Department of Tourism

4. Department of Transportation and Communications

5. Department of Finance

6. Department of Trade and Industry

7. Department of National Defense

8. Department of the Interior and Local Government

9. Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council

10. Office of the Executive Secretary

c. Three (3) representatives from the Private Sector to be appointed by the President.”

Section 2. Repealing Clause . - All orders, proclamations, rules and regulations, issuances, or parts
thereof, which are inconsistent with any provision of this Executive Order are hereby repealed or
modified accordingly.

Section 3. Effectivitv. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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DONE in the City of Manila, Philippines, this 19 th day of January, in the year of Our Lord,
nineteen hundred and ninety-nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 66

EXTENDING THE PERIOD OF EXISTENCE OF THE NATIONAL CENTENNIAL
COMMISSION TO APRIL 30, 1999

WHEREAS, Executive Order No. 128, dated October 4, 1993 created the National Centennial
Commission to prepare a Comprehensive Plan for the National Centennial Celebration in 1998;

WHEREAS, the National Centennial Commission has successfully overseen the various activities
of the National Centennial Celebration, highlighted by the many activities in 1998, the centenary of
the declaration of the First Philippine Republic;

WHEREAS, Executive Order No. 128 provides that the Commission’s “existence shall terminate
upon the completion of all activities related to the Centennial Celebration;”

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order the extension of the official
existence of the National Centennial Commission until April 30, 1999, to allow it additional time to
complete whatever Centennial celebration or activities are left unfinished, and to submit its terminal
and liquidation reports as well as turn over all finished and unfinished projects to private entities or to
the Office of the President. Further, the NCC should start the turn-over of all finished and unfinished
projects to concerned agencies, to local government units, to private entities or to the Office of the
President.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 25 th day of January, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 67

ATTACHING THE TOLL REGULATORY BOARD TO THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT

WHEREAS, the Toll Regulatory Board was established pursuant to P.D. No. 1112 to closely
supervise and regulate the operation of toll facilities by the private sector and the collection of toll fees;

WHEREAS, in keeping with the policy of the government of enhancing efficiency and effectiveness
in the implementation of government programs, the realignment of certain offices are imperative;

WHEREAS, pursuant to P.D. 1416 as amended by P.D. No. 1772 and the Revised Administrative
Code of 1987, the President of the Philippines shall have a continuing authority to reorganize the
administrative structure of the National Government;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by the Constitution and by the law, do hereby order:

Section 1. Composition and Membership. - The Toll Regulatory Board shall be composed of the
following:

a) The Department of Public Works and Highways as Chairman

b) The Secretaries and Head of the following agencies or their duly authorized representatives:

1. Department of Transportation and Communications

2. Department of Finance

3. National Economic and Development Authority

c) A representative from the private sector preferably a lawyer or an economist with adequate

experience in public utilities regulation to be appointed by the President.

Section 2. Regulatory Board. - The Toll Regulatory Board which was created by Presidential
Decree No. 1112 is hereby attached to the Office of the President.

Section 3. Repealing Clause. - All presidential decrees, letter of instructions, orders, proclamations,
rules, regulations, issuances, or parts thereof, which are inconsistent with any provision of this
Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

Section 4. Effectivitv. - This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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DONE in the City of Manila, Philippines, this 26 th day of January, in the year of Our Lord,
nineteen hundred and Ninety-nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 68

PRESCRIBING PROCEDURES FOR REVIEW BY THE LOCAL WATER UTILITIES
ADMINISTRATION (LWUA) OF BUILD-OPERATE-TRANSFER (BOT) AND SIMILAR
PROPOSALS ON WATER SUPPLY PROJECTS

WHEREAS, existing procedures in the approval process of build-operate-transfer (BOT)
proposals under Republic Act No. 7718, otherwise known as the BOT Law, do not specifically provide
for a review by the Local Water Utilities Administration of BOT proposals submitted to water districts
for water supply projects;

WHEREAS, the present situation has led various water districts to proceed with the processing
and approval of their BOT proposals without appropriate review by LWUA, unduly resulting in
disorganized efforts to implement the BOT law;

WHEREAS, the Local Water Utilities Administration, in compliance with a directive of the
President, has made recommendations to supplement existing procedures under the BOT law,
specifically applicable to water supply projects in Water Districts;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. COVERAGE. This Executive Order shall govern the approval process for all BOT
and similar proposals on water supply projects.

SEC. 2. IMPLEMENTING AGENCY. In a situation where BOT project encompasses the service
area of more than one (1) water district, LWUA shall be the implementing agency.

In the case however, of BOT project intended for a lone water district, which falls within the
category of either Large or Very Large (as defined under DBM Memorandum dated May 23, 1995)
the Water District (WD) concerned shall be the implementing agency. For other categories of water
districts, LWUA shall be the implementing agency.

SEC. 3. UNSOLICITED PROPOSALS. For unsolicited BOT proposals with the water districts as
implementing agencies, the approval process shall be as follows:

a. BOT Proponents - Any private sector proponent desiring to participate in BOT or similar
projects for water supply shall present to the water district a written document signifying its
interest, which shall contain, among other things, its company profile, specifics on the project
it intends to undertake and source of funding.

b. Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) - The proponent and the water district shall execute
the MOU which shall be non-exclusive, at no cost to the water district, and with a validity
period for submission of a proposal of not exceeding six (6) months depending on the
complexity of the project.

c. Evaluation of BOT Proposal - The evaluation of the proposal shall be undertaken by the
implementing agency’s Prequalification, Bid and Awards Committee for BOT Projects.

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d. Project Presentation - The WD shall conduct a project presentation with public hearing for
the purpose of determining the social and financial acceptability of the proposed project.

e. Submission of Documents and Reports - The WD shall be required to provide LWUA with
copies of all the above documents and reports for its information in order that its review of
the proposal will have sufficient basis.

f. Before the evaluated proposal is submitted for preliminary review by NEDA, LWUA shall
also make a preliminary review of the project proposal based on the evaluation made by the
PBAC (for BOT) of the water districts;

g. LWUA shall make its final review of the project proposal after the WD Board of Directors
shall have approved the same.

SEC. 4. ELLECTIVITY, This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

Done in the City of Manila, this 10 th day of FEBRUARY, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen
hundred and ninety nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999).
Presidential Management Staff.

[ Executive Order Nos.:

338]. Manila:

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MALACANAN PALACE
MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 69

DECLARING AND PLACING PORTIONS OF THE WATERS IN MANILA BAY AND ITS
FORESHORE AREA AS A SPECIAL TOURIST ZONE, UNDER THE ADMINISTRATION,
CONTROL, MANAGEMENT, PRESERVATION, DEVELOPMENT AND SUPERVISION OF
THE PHILIPPINE TOURISM AUTHORITY

WHEREAS, the Manila Bay is known for its spectacular and breathtaking sunset view;

WHEREAS, there is a need to effect the preservation of certain portions in the waters of Manila
Bay and its foreshore area thereof and to introduce and maintain suitable and appropriate facilities to
conserve and maximize the site’s tourism potential;

WHEREAS, the Philippine Tourism Authority (PTA) under Presidential Decree no. 564 s. 1973
is the government agency mandated by law to develop and preserve areas with tourism potential, or
those devoted or currently in use as a tourism facility;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

Section 1. Subject to the terms and conditions of this Order, a portion of the Manila Bay and its
foreshore area thereof, which is more particularly described as follows, is hereby declared as a Special
Tourism Zone.

Beginning at point marked 1 on the plan, thence to point 2 at a distance of
104.55 M with bearing S°18 38’ E, thence to point 3 at a distance of 83.13 m.
with bearing S 37° 27’ E, thence to point 4 at a distance of 36.17 m with bearing
S 42° 23’ E, thence to point 5 at a distance of 36.21 m with bearing S 47° 18’ E,
thence to point 6 at a distance of 8.15 m with bearing N 62° 32’ E, thence to
point 7 at a distance of 67.82 m with bearing S 26° 41’ E, thence to point 8 at a
distance of 32.42 m with bearing N 77° 45’ E, thence to point 9 at a distance of
6.06 m with bearing S 27° 37’ E, thence to point 10 at a distance of 89.01 m. with
bearing N 62° 11’ E, thence to point 11 at a distance of 100.0 m with bearing
S 27° 59’ E, thence to point 12 at a distance of 92.0 m with bearing S 59 ° 60’ W,
thence to point 13 at a distance of 78.0 m with bearing S 81° 60’ W, thence to
point 14 at a distance of 80.0 m with bearing N 69° 00’ W, thence to point 15 at
a distance of 255.0 m with bearing N 39° 00’ W, thence to point 16 at a distance
of 206.00 m with bearing N 9° 60’W, thence to point 17 at a distance of 43.0 m
with bearing N 22° 00’ W, thence to point 18 at a distance of 107.00 m with
bearing N 39° 00’ E, thence to point 19 at a distance of 148.00 m with bearing
N 62° 00’E, thence to point 20 at a distance of 217.90 m with bearing S 42°

37’ E, thence to point 21 at a distance of 4.13 m with bearing S 55° 09’ W, thence
to point 22 at a distance of 6.40 m with bearing S 6° 06’ E, thence to point 23 at
a distance of 22.09 m with bearing S 61° 36’ W, thence to point 24 at a distance
of 7.30 m with bearing N 27° 39’ W, thence to point 25 at a distance of 30.44 m

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with bearing S 78° 53’ W, thence to point 26 at a distance of 25.74 m with bearing
S 63° 38’ W, thence to point 27 at a distance of 37.85 m with bearing S 46° 07’ W,
thence to point 28 at a distance of 7.47 m with bearing S 28° 54’E, thence to
point 29 at a distance of 30.66 m with bearing S 61° 40’ W, thence to point 30 at
a distance of 76.23 m with bearing S 28° 34’ E, thence to point 31 at a distance
of 9.16 m with bearing S 61° 35’W, thence to point 1, the point of beginning at
a distance of 46.30 m with bearing S 9° 46’E, all in all comprising a total area of
72,277 sq.m, more or less.”

Section 2. As a Special Tourism Zone, the administration, control, management, preservation,
development and supervision of the above-mentioned portions of the Manila Bay and its foreshore
area thereof is placed upon the Philippine Tourism Authority (PTA). The PTA shall within sixty (60)
days from effectivity of this Order submit to the Office of the President its comprehensive plan on
the development, preservation and management of the above-mentioned Special Tourist Zone, with its
metes and bounds.

Section 3. All executive issuances inconsistent with the provision of this Order are hereby revoked,
modified or amended accordingly.

Section 4. This Order shall take effect immediately upon its issuance.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 17 th day of FEBRUARY, in the year of Our Lord nineteen
hundred and ninety nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 70

AMENDING EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 43 PROVIDING FOR THE CREATION OF A
PREPARATORY COMMISSION ON CONSTITUTIONAL REFORMS

WHEREAS, simplicity, economy and efficiency should be promoted in the Preparatory
Commission on Constitutional Reforms created pursuant to Executive Order No. 43 promulgated on
26 November 1998; and

WHEREAS, amendments to Executive Order No. 43 are necessary to enable the Preparatory
Commission to perform its functions effectively, expeditiously and at the least cost.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Section 2 of Executive Order No. 43 is hereby amended to read as follows:

“Composition. The Preparatory Commission shall be composed of a Chairman and not more
than 25 members who shall be appointed by the President. The members shall be individuals
of national standing with knowledge and understanding of the State and the principles which
underlie its existence, organization, and activities as well as of government and governance.”

SECTION 2. Section 4 is hereby amended to read, as follows:

“Chairman. The President shall appoint the Chairman of the Commission. The Chairman shall:
1) Preside over the meetings, sessions and other proceedings of the Commission; 2) Manage and
direct all functions and activities of the Commission; 3) Determine the organizational structure of
the Commission and create such positions as may be necessary for the economical, effective and
efficient discharge of their functions and responsibilities; 4) Appoint all officers and employees,
except the Executive Director of the Commission and exercise disciplinary authority over them;
and 5) Perform such other functions as may be necessary for the realization and implementation
of the objectives of the Commission.”

“The salary and emoluments of the Executive Director and personnel of the Secretariat shall be
fixed by the Chairman, subject to existing applicable standards and guidelines.”

SECTION 3. Section 5 is hereby amended to read, as follows:

“Internal Rules of Procedure and Consultations. The Commission shall formulate and adopt its
rules and procedure. It shall also conduct, whenever feasible, consultations with all affected or
interested sectors of Filipino society regarding its proposals.”

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SECTION 4. Section 6 is hereby amended to read as follows:

“Secretariat. There is hereby created a Secretariat which shall be headed by an Executive Director
who shall be appointed by the President. The Secretariat shall be responsible for providing all
legal services, technical assistance and administrative and financial support services required by
the Commission.”

SECTION 5. Section 7 is hereby amended to read as follows:

“Appropriations. The initial amount of Three Million Pesos (P3, 000, 000. 00) is hereby
appropriated for the operational expenses of the Commission to be sourced from the funds of
the Office of the President, subject to the usual accounting and auditing rules and regulations.
Additional amounts shall be released to the Commission upon submission of requirements for
expenditures.”

SECTION 6. Section 8 is hereby amended to read as follows:

“Time Frame. The Commission shall commence its work on 01 January 1999 and complete
the same on or before 31 December 1999. The Commission shall submit its report and
recommendations to the President within fifteen (15) working days from 31 December 1999.”

SECTION 7. Repealing Clause. All provisions of Executive Order No. 43, series of 1999,
inconsistent with this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

SECTION 8. Effectivity. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE, in the City of Manila, this 19 th day of February, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA
H.E. President of the Philippines

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANAN PALACE
MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 71

MODIFYING THE RATES OF DUTY ON CERTAIN IMPORTED ARTICLES AS PROVIDED
FOR UNDER THE TARIFF AND CUSTOMS CODE OF 1978, AS AMENDED, IN ORDER
TO IMPLEMENT THE 1999-2003 PHILIPPINE SCHEDULE OF TARIFF REDUCTION
OF PRODUCTS TRANSFERRED FROM THE TEMPORARY EXCLUSION LIST TO
THE INCLUSION LIST UNDER THE NEW TIME FRAME OF THE ACCELERATED
COMMON EFFECTIVE PREFERENTIAL TARIFF SCHEME FOR
THE ASEAN FREE TRADE AREA (CEPT-AFTA)

WHEREAS, at the 12th Meeting of the AFTA Council held in Manila, Philippines on 6 October
1998, it was agreed that ASEAN Member Countries shall prepare the legal enactment to implement
the schedule of the tariff reductions of products transferred from the Temporary Exclusion List (TEL)
to the Inclusion List under the new time frame covering the period from 1999-2003.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, pursuant
to the powers vested in me under Section 402 of the Tariff and Customs Code of 1978, as amended, do
hereby order:

SECTION 1. The articles specifically listed in Annex “A” (Articles Granted Concessions Under
the CEPT-AFTA) hereof as classified under Section 104 of the Tariff and Customs Code of 1978, as
amended, shall be subject to the ASEAN Common Effective Preferential Tariff in accordance with the
1999-2003 schedule indicated in Columns 4-8 of Annex “A”. The CEPT rates so indicated shall be
accorded to any ASEAN Member State as soon as that country implements its CEPT tariff reduction
schedules on the articles specified in Annex “A” hereof.

SECTION 2. In the event that any subsequent changes are made in the basic (MFN) Philippine
rate of duty on any of the articles listed in Annex “A” to a rate lower than the rate prescribed in
Columns 4-8, such article shall automatically be accorded the corresponding reduced rate of duty.

SECTION 3. The Margins of Preference (MOPs) accorded under the ASEAN Preferential Trading
Arrangements shall no longer be extended to any of the products listed in Annex “A” hereof.

SECTION 4. From the date of effectivity of this Order, all articles listed in Annex “A” entered
or withdrawn from warehouses in the Philippines for consumption shall be imposed the rates of duty
therein prescribed subject to qualification under the Rules of Origin as provided for in the Agreement
on the CEPT Scheme for the AFTA signed on 28 January 1992.

SECTION 5. All decrees, order, issuances, and rules and regulations, or parts thereof, which
are contrary to or inconsistent with this Executive Order are hereby repealed, amended or modified
accordingly.

SECTION 6. This Executive Order shall take effect 1 January 1999.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 15 th day of JAN., in the year of our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Reference: Annex A

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANAN PALACE
MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 72

MODIFYING THE RATES OF DUTY ON CERTAIN IMPORTED ARTICLES AS PROVIDED
UNDER THE TARIFF AND CUSTOMS CODE OF 1978, AS AMENDED, IN ORDER TO
IMPLEMENT THE MINIMUM 50% MARGIN OF PREFERENCE ON CERTAIN
PRODUCTS INCLUDED IN THE BRAND-TO-BRAND COMPLEMENTATION
SCHEME IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY UNDER THE BASIC AGREEMENT
ON ASEAN INDUSTRIAL COMPLEMENTATION

WHEREAS, the Philippines is a Contracting Party to the Basic Agreement on ASEAN Industrial
Complementation (BAAIC) signed in Manila on 16 June 1981;

WHEREAS, the Philippines is a signatory to the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the
Brand-to-Brand Complementation (BBC) Scheme for the Automotive Industry under the BAAIC signed
by the ASEAN Economic Ministers in Pattaya, Thailand on 18 October 1988;

WHEREAS, the Philippines is a participating country in the approved BBC Schemes of Mitsubishi
Motors Corporation along with Malaysia and Thailand;

WHEREAS, under the Mitsubishi BBC Schemes approved on an ad referendum basis by Malaysia
on 22 April 1997 and Thailand on 31 December 1997 and by the Philippines on 27 December 1996,
the Philippines will import from Malaysia and Thailand certain completely knocked-down (CKD)
component parts for the original equipment manufacture (OEM) of KZ Model light commercial
vehicles, in exchange for Philippine exports of complementary component parts to the two participating
countries;

WHEREAS, under the MOU on the BBC Scheme in the Automotive Industry, the Philippines
shall grant a minimum 50% Margin of Preference (MOP) to BBC products approved by the SEOM
subject to the terms and conditions set out in Section 9(b) of said MOU;

WHEREAS, under Section 9(b)(i) of the said MOU, the 50% MOP for existing BBC products
shall be granted within 90 days of approval of the BBC products by the SEOM, and for new BBC
products, the grant shall be extended from the actual date of commercial production of the products,
or upon expiry of 30 months from the date of approval of the products whichever comes earlier;

WHEREAS, the various component parts specified in Certificates of Eligibility (COEs)
Nos. MMC/l/A/1998 (Rev.) and MMC/2/A/1998 (Rev.) issued on 15 June 1998 by the ASEAN
Secretariat in favor of Mitsubishi Motors Corporation are existing products, i.e., already being
manufactured at the time of their approval as BBC products;

WHEREAS, under paragraph b(ii) of Section 9 of the MOU, non-participating countries shall
initially waive their rights under Chapter II, Article 8, paragraph 2, of the ASEAN Preferential Trading
Arrangements (PTA) for the first four years from date of granting of MOP and shall thereafter enjoy
the MOP granted by participating countries as soon as they extend the same MOP;

WHEREAS, under paragraphs b(ii) and b(iv) of Section 9 of the MOU, the waiver period shall
be extended beyond the first four years for as long as the non-participating countries do not wish to
grant the MOP up to a maximum waiver period of eight years. After the maximum eight-year waiver

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period, any entity in any member country, whether the member country is participating in the specific
BBC Scheme or not, which produces the BBC product shall enjoy the same MOP in the participating
countries for the BBC product.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, pursuant
to the powers vested in me under Section 402 of the Tariff and Customs Code of 1978, as amended, do
hereby order:

SECTION 1. The articles specifically listed in Annex “A” hereof, as classified under Section 104
of the Tariff and Customs Code of 1978, as amended, shall be accorded a minimum 50% MOP as
specified in Column 12 thereof. In effect, said articles shall be subject to the BBC Preferential Tariff in
accordance with the schedule indicated opposite each article as specified in Columns 13, 14, 15, 16, 17
and 18 of Annex “A” .

SECTION 2. The MOP provided in “Annex A” on Steering (pump assy oil, gear assy power
STRG and end assy tierod) for Model (KZ) Light Commercial Vehicle for the transport of goods
shall be accorded exclusively to the BBC entity in Malaysia (Perusahaan Otomobil Nasional Sdn.
Bhd. (PROTON) effective from May 1, 1997 up to June 30, 2001. Thereafter, the same MOP may be
granted to a non-participating ASEAN country as soon as that country extends the same MOP itself
until December 31, 2002. Effective January 1, 2003, the final CEPT rate shall apply.

SECTION 3. The MOP provided in Annex “A” on Engine (case oil seal, rod assy connecting,
cam shaft, pump assy water, case assy oil pump, cover rocker, bolt cylinder head, bolt crank pulley
and gasket rocker cover) for Model (KZ) light commercial vehicle for the transport of goods shall
be accorded exclusively to the BBC entity in Thailand (MMC Sittipol Co., Ltd (MSC) effective from
January 1, 1998 up to December 31, 2002. Effective January 1, 2003, the final CEPT rate shall apply.

SECTION 4. The 50% MOP accorded under this Executive Order shall remain effective until
December 31, 2002 regardless of any subsequent changes in the basic Philippine rate of duty on the
afore-mentioned articles.

SECTION 5. Upon the effectivity of this Executive Order, the articles specifically listed in the
aforesaid Annex “A” which are entered or withdrawn from warehouses in the Philippines for
consumption shall pay the applicable BBC Preferential Tariff specified under Section 1 hereof, subject
to qualification under the Rules of Origin as prescribed in the Agreement on ASEAN Preferential
Trading Arrangements, as amended.

SECTION 6. Any revision/s to the part numbers appearing in Column 4 of Annex “A” shall be
communicated immediately to the Bureau of Customs by the Department of Trade and Industry within
five (5) days after receipt of the official copy of the revised part numbers from the ASEAN Secretariat.

SECTION 7. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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Done in the City of Manila, this 15 th day of JAN., in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred and
Ninety Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). / Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANAN PALACE
MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 73

MODIFYING THE RATES OF DUTY ON BREAKFAST CEREALS AS PROVIDED UNDER THE
TARIFF AND CUSTOMS CODE OF 1978, AS AMENDED, IN ORDER TO IMPLEMENT THE
NINETY PER CENTUM (90%) MARGIN OF PREFERENCE (MOP) THEREON INCLUDED IN
THE NESTLE ASEAN INDUSTRIAL JOINT VENTURE ( AIJV) PROJECTS AS PROVIDED FOR
IN ARTICLE ID, PARAGRAPHS 3 (D) AND 8 (D) OF THE REVISED BASIC AGREEMENT ON
ASEAN INDUSTRIAL JOINT VENTURE (RBAAIJV)

WHEREAS, the Philippines is a Contracting Party to the Revised Basic Agreement on ASEAN
Industrial Joint Venture (RBAAIJV) signed in Manila on 15 December 1987;

WHEREAS, The Philippines, along with Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and
Thailand, is a participating country in the approved NESTLE ASEAN Industrial Joint Venture Projects;

WHEREAS, among the seven (7) approved NESTLE AIJV Projects, the project on breakfast
cereals was assigned to the Philippines (Nestle ASEAN Philippines, Inc.) whose commercial production
started in February 1993;

WHEREAS, in accordance with Article III, paras. 1, 2, 6 and 7 of the RBAAIVJ, the AIJV
breakfast cereals manufactured by Nestle ASEAN Phils., Inc. are entitled to the exclusive grant of a
ninety percent (90%) MOP by Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand, as participating
countries in the Nestle AIJV Breakfast Cereal Project for a period of four (4) years from date of start of
commercial production;

WHEREAS, under Article III paras (3)(d) and 8(d) of the RBAAIJV, any entity in any member
country which produces that AIJV product, irrespective of whether it qualifies as an AIJV or not, shall
enjoy the same margin of tariff preference in the participating countries for that AIJV product after the
four (4) year-exclusivity period;

WHEREAS, under Article II, para. 10 of the RBAAIJV, the grant of the 90% MOP on breakfast
cereals produced by the non-AIJV entities in the participating countries shall be effective on the date
specified in the Certificate of Eligibility issued by the ASEAN Secretariat in favor of the non-AIJV
entities;

WHEREAS, under the Article 12 (d) of the new Agreement on ASEAN Industrial Cooperation
(AICO) Scheme which has superseded the Basic Agreement on ASEAN Industrial Joint Venture and the
Memorandum of Understanding on the Brand-to-Brand Complementation (BBC) Scheme, the grant of
90% MOP on approved AIJV products shall continue to be accorded up to 31 December 2002, after
which date the final CEPT rates shall apply.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, pursuant
to the powers vested in me under Section 402 of the Tariff and Customs Code of 1978, as amended, do
hereby order:

SECTION 1. The articles specifically listed hereunder as classified under Section 104 of the Tariff
and Customs Code of 1978, as amended, shall be accorded a minimum 90% MOP as specified in

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Column 6. In effect, said article shall be subject to the AIJV Preferential Tariff in accordance with the
schedule indicated in Columns 7, 8, and 9.

HS Code Description

1998

(1) (2) (3)

1904.10 00 Prepared foods obtained by 20
the swelling or roasting of

Rate of
Duty (%)

1 January

Margin of
Preference
(%)

Applicable AIJV
Preferential Tariff (%)

1 January

1999

2000

1998

1999 2000

(4)

(5)

(6)

(7)

(8) (9)

2 1.5

cereals or cereal products
(i.e., Breakfast Cereals)

SECTION 2. The MOP herein provided on the above-mentioned articles shall be accorded to
the non-AIJV entities in Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand effective on the date
specified in the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) to be issued by the ASEAN Secretariat in favor of the
non-AIJV entities in the participating countries.

SECTION 3. The 90% MOP accorded under this Executive Order shall remain effective until
31 December 2002 regardless of any subsequent change in the Philippine rate of duty on the above-
mentioned articles. Effective 1 January 2003, the final CEPT rate shall apply.

SECTION 4. Upon the effectivity of this Executive Order, the above-mentioned articles which
are entered or withdrawn from warehouses in the Philippines for consumption shall pay the applicable
AIJV Preferential Tariff specified under Section 1 hereof, subject to qualification under the Rules of
Origin as provided for in the Protocol to Amend the Agreement on the ASEAN Preferential Trading
Arrangements signed by the AEM on 15 December 1995.

SECTION 5. All other Presidential issuances, administrative rules and regulations or parts
thereof, which are inconsistent with this Executive Order are hereby revoked or modified accordingly.

SECTION 6. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 15 th day of JANUARY, in the year of Our Lord Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999).
Presidential Management Staff.

[Executive Order Nos.:

- 338]. Manila:

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MALACANAN PALACE
MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 74

MODIFYING THE RATES OF DUTY ON CERTAIN IMPORTED ARTICLES AS PROVIDED
UNDER THE TARIFF AND CUSTOMS CODE OF 1978, AS AMENDED, IN ORDER TO
IMPLEMENT THE PREFERENTIAL TARIFF RATES ON CERTAIN PRODUCTS UNDER THE
ASEAN INDUSTRIAL COOPERATION (AICO) SCHEME

WHEREAS, the Philippines is a Contracting Party to the Basic Agreement on the ASEAN
Industrial Cooperation Scheme signed in Singapore on 27 April 1996;

WHEREAS, the Philippines is a participating country in the approved AICO Arrangements of
Honda and Toyota, along with Malaysia and Thailand and in the approved AICO Arrangement of
Philippine Auto Components, Inc., along with Thailand;

WHEREAS, under the Honda AICO Arrangement, it was agreed that the Philippines (Honda
Cars Philippines, Inc.) will import from Malaysia and Thailand certain automotive components as
intermediate parts for the original equipment manufacture (OEM) of Honda Accord, City and Civic
passenger cars. In exchange, Malaysia and Thailand will import from the Philippines complementary
component parts for the OEM of Honda Accord, City and Civic passenger cars;

WHEREAS, under the Toyota AICO Arrangement, the Philippines (Toyota Motor Philippines
Corp.) will import from Malaysia and Thailand certain automotive parts/components as intermediate
products for the original equipment manufacture (OEM) of Corolla passenger cars and TUV
commercial vehicles for the transport of persons and goods. In exchange, Malaysia and Thailand will
import from the Philippines complementary components parts for the OEM of Corolla passenger cars
and TUV commercial vehicles;

WHEREAS, under the Philippine Auto Components, Inc. AICO Arrangement, the Philippines will
import from Thailand motorcycle meters and lighting fittings (bulbs) for instrument clusters. In return,
Thailand will import from the Philippines instrument clusters and dial for motorcycle meters;

WHEREAS, AICO Certificate of Eligibility Nos. ITonda/1998/3 and Honda/1998/2 were issued
on 5 October 1998 and 9 October 1998, respectively, in favor of the participating companies in the
Honda AICO Arrangement; AICO Certificate of Eligibility Nos. Toyota/1998/1, Toyota/1998/3 and
Toyota/1998/4 were issued on 28 October 1998 in favor of the participating companies in the Toyota
AICO Arrangement; AICO Certificate of Eligibility No. Denso/1998/1 was issued on 4 November 1998
in favor of the participating companies in the Philippine Auto Components, Inc. AICO Arrangement;

WHEREAS, in consonance with Articles 5 and 7 of the Basic Agreement of the (AICO) Scheme,
participating companies in the approved Honda, Toyota and Philippine Auto Components, Inc. AICO
Arrangements shall qualify for 0 - 5% preferential tariff rates to be extended by Malaysia, Philippines
and Thailand as participating countries, effective within 60 days from the date of issuance of the
Certificates of Eligibility by the ASEAN Secretariat.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, pursuant
to the powers vested in me under Section 402 of the Tariff and Customs Code of 1978, as amended, do
hereby order:

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SECTION 1. The articles specifically listed in Annex “A” hereof, as classified under Section 104 of
the Tariff and Customs Code of 1978, as amended, shall be accorded the AICO rate of 5% as specified
in Column 6 thereof.

SECTION 2. The AICO rate provided in Annex “A” shall be accorded to the AICO entity in
Malaysia (Oriental Assemblers Sdn. Bhd.) effective from 5 October 1998 and to the AICO entity in
Thailand (Honda Cars Manufacturing (Thailand) Co., Ltd.) effective from 9 October 1998.

SECTION 3. The articles specifically listed in Annex “B” hereof, as classified under Section 104
of the Tariff and Customs Code of 1978, as amended, shall be accorded the AICO rate of 5% as
component parts of Corolla passenger cars and the AICO rate of 3% as component parts of TUV
commercial vehicles as specified in Column 6 thereof.

SECTION 4. The AICO rate provided in Annex “B” shall be accorded to the AICO entity in
Malaysia (Assembly Services, Sdn. Bhd.) and to the AICO entity in Thailand (Toyota Motor Thailand
Co., Ltd.) effective 28 October 1998.

SECTION 5. The articles specifically listed in Annex “C” hereof, as classified under Section 104
of the Tariff and Customs Code of 1978, as amended, shall be accorded the AICO rates as specified in
Column 4 thereof.

SECTION 6. The AICO rates provided in Annex “C” shall be accorded to the AICO entity in
Thailand (Denso (Thailand) Co. Ltd.) effective 4 November 1998.

SECTION 7. In the event that any subsequent changes are made in the basic (MFN) Philippine
rate of duty on any of the articles listed in Annexes "A", “B" and “C" to a rate lower than the AICO
rate prescribed in Column 6 of Annexes “A” and “B” and in Column 4 of Annex “C” , such article shall
automatically be accorded the corresponding reduced rate of duty. Effective 1 January 2003, the final
CEPT rate on the subject articles shall apply.

SECTION 8. Upon the effectivity of this Executive Order, the articles specifically listed in the
aforesaid Annexes "A", “B" and "C" which are entered or withdrawn from warehouses in the
Philippines for consumption shall pay the applicable AICO preferential tariff rates specified under
Sections 1, 3 and 5 hereof, subject to qualification under the Rules of Origin for the CEPT, as evidenced
by the Certificate of Origin - Form “D”.

SECTION 9. Any revision/s to the part numbers appearing in Column 4 of Annexes “A” and
“B” shall be communicated immediately to the Bureau of Customs by the Board of Investments within
five (5) days after receipt of the official copy of the revised part numbers from the ASEAN Secretariat.

SECTION 10. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 15 th day of JAN., in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(SGD.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

References: Annexes A, B, and C
Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 75

DIRECTING THE RATIONALIZATION OF THE UTILIZATION OF THE NATIONAL
LIVELIHOOD SUPPORT FUND (NLSF) AND PLACING THE FUND AND ITS SECRETARIAT
UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF THE LAND BANK OF THE PHILIPPINES

WHEREAS, E.O. 238 dated July 22, 1987 directed that the Bagong Kilusang Kabuhayan
sa Kaunlaran (BKKK) Capital Fund and its earnings be utilized for the promotion, generation and
development of livelihood opportunities;

WHEREAS, Section 37 of Republic Act No. 6657 has transferred and attached to the Land Bank
of the Philippines the Bagong Kilusang Kabuhayan sa Kaunlaran (BKKK) Secretariat and the BKKK
Capital Fund/National Livelihood Support Fund;

WHEREAS, Administrative Order No. 75 dated August 6, 1993 institutionalized the
administrative supervision of the Land Bank of the Philippines over the BKKK Secretariat and the
BKKK Capital Fund/National Livelihood Support Fund through an Executive Committee;

WHEREAS, Republic Act No. 8425 has mandated the People’s Credit and Finance Corporation
(PCFC) to be the main vehicle for the delivery of microfinance services for the exclusive use of the
poor;

WHEREAS, Memorandum Order No. 11 dated August 13, 1998 directed the Land Bank of the
Philippines to invest additional P900 million from the National Livelihood Support Fund to PCFC;

WHEREAS, Administrative Order No. 45 dated December 22, 1998 abolished the Executive
Committee of the National Livelihood Support Fund;

WHEREAS, the same Administrative Order transformed/renamed the BKKK Capital Fund into a
Trust Fund, otherwise known as Effective Response to Alleviate Poverty (ERAP) Trust Fund;

WHEREAS, there is an urgent need to rationalize the utilization of the BKKK Fund in relation
to other mandated resources to effectively serve the needs of the poor, particularly farmers and
marginalized members of the rural communities.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. The BKKK Capital Fund/National Livelihood Support Fund as transformed into
an Effective Response to Alleviate Poverty (ERAP) Trust Fund, otherwise known as ERAP Trust Fund,
shall remain under the supervision of the Land Bank of the Philippines.

SEC. 2. A Management Committee is hereby organized as the policy making body through which
Land Bank of the Philippines shall exercise its supervision over the Fund and the Secretariat, composed
of the following:

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1 .

President, Land Bank of the Philippines

Chairman

Executive Director, NLSF Secretariat

- Vice Chairman

Representatives from:

Office of the President

Member

Department of Agrarian Reform

Member

Department of Agriculture

Member

Department of Interior and Local Government

Member

Peoples Credit and Finance Corporation

Member

Farmers Organizations

Member

Labor Sector

Member

SEC. 3. The National Livelihood Support Fund Secretariat is hereby reorganized to serve as the
ERAP Trust Fund Secretariat and realigned into a livelihood and enterprise development, generation
and promotion agency of the government. The Executive Director shall appoint Secretariat personnel
based on the DBM approved organizational structure and staffing pattern, provided, that those who
may not be absorbed shall be entitled to separation benefits equivalent to two (2) months latest salary
received for every year of government service.

SEC. 4. The NLSF Secretariat is directed to establish a resource development instrumentality for
policy development and capability building of its partners and beneficiaries.

SEC. 5. The President of the Land Bank of the Philippines and the Executive Director of the NLSF
Secretariat are hereby directed to formulate and issue the implementing guidelines of this Executive
Order.

SEC. 6. The NLSF Secretariat shall submit annual reports to the Office of the President.

SEC. 7. All executive issuances, orders, rules and regulations inconsistent with this Executive
Order are hereby revoked, amended or modified accordingly.

SEC. 8. This Order takes effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 19 th day of February, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999).
Presidential Management Staff.

[ Executive Order Nos.:

338]. Manila:

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 76
CONSTITUTING THE TANON STRAIT COMMISSION

WHEREAS, the government promotes the optimum and sustained use of our resources to
accelerate socio-economic development, particularly in the countryside;

WHEREAS, coastal communities remain to be some of the most depressed areas in the country;

WHEREAS, the Tanon Strait is a narrow passage of water bounded by the islands of Cebu in the
East and Negros in the West;

WHEREAS, the Tanon Strait harbors a rich biodiversity of marine life and has been proclaimed
a protected seascape pursuant to Proclamation No. 1234, s. 1998 (Declaring the Tanon Strait as a
Protected Seascape);

WHEREAS, there is need to address the development concerns of the surrounding coastal
communities on matters of poverty alleviation, eco-tourism and sustainable growth;

WHEREAS, there is a need to ensure that increasing economic and tourism-related activities shall
not threaten marine life, in particular the endangered dolphins and whales that abound in the area;

WHEREAS, to enable the government to undertake measures to conserve the natural resources
and promote the accelerated socio-economic development of the area, consistent with the concept of
sustainable development, there is need to create a body that shall formulate short and long term plans
for the Tanon Strait and orchestrate development efforts in the area;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by the
powers vested in me by law, do hereby order the following:

Section 1. Constitution of the Tanon Strait Commission. There is hereby constituted the Tanon
Strait Commission hereinafter referred to as the Commission, which shall serve as the planning, policy
and program coordinating body for the accelerated, balanced and sustainable development of the
Tanon Strait Basin.

Section 2. Coverage. The area to be served by the Commission shall be the body of water known
as the Tanon Strait situated between the islands of Cebu and Negros and the land mass surrounding
it, hereinafter collectively referred to as the Basin, the technical description of which is stipulated in
Proclamation No. 1234, s. 1998 (Declaring the Tanon Strait as a Protected Seascape).

Section 3. Composition. The Commission shall have the Director-General of the National
Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) as its Chairman, The Executive Director of the
Commission as its Vice-Chairman, and the following as members:

Representative, Department of Environment and Natural Resources

Representative, Department of Agriculture

Representative, Department of Public Works and Highways

Representative, Department of Transportation and Communications

Representative, Department of Trade and Industry

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Chairman, Regional Development Council VI
Chairman, Regional Development Council VII
Governor, Negros Oriental
Governor, Negros Occidental
Governor, Cebu

Mayor of a Negros Oriental municipality/city along the Tanon Strait
Mayor of a Cebu municipality/city along the Tanon Strait
One ( 1 ) representative from the private sector
One ( 1 ) environment-oriented NGO representative

The private sector and NGO representatives shall be appointed by the Chairman. The mayors
of the municipalities/ cities located along the Tanon Strait shall elect, annually, their respective
representatives to the Commission.

Section 4. Functions and Responsibilities. The Commission shall have the following functions and
responsibilities:

a. Undertake and regularly update a comprehensive survey and inventory of the physical and
natural resources, and maintain an accurate data of the most economic and socially beneficial
development projects for the Basin;

b. Review all existing policies, programs and projects, researches and studies as well as other
initiatives in the Basin and formulate an integrated Master Development Plan (MDP) to
ensure the preservation, and the coordinated and sustained development of the Basin;

c. Coordinate the implementation of measures to protect the ecological balance, enhance the
environment, and preserve the area’s natural beauty;

d. Adopt a process of maximum consultation with the local government units concerned and all
interest groups in the localities to ensure that their needs, concerns and ideas are considered in
the formulation and implementation of plans and development of the Basin;

e. Oversee the implementation of the MDP and monitor all projects in the Basin;

f. Negotiate and enter into management and/or consulting contracts in pursuit of the
development of the Basin;

g. Accept or receive donations and other conveyances by gratuitous title or funds, materials and
services for use in the planning, rationalization and management of the Basin, subject to the
usual accounting and auditing rules and regulations;

h. Negotiate with local and foreign financing institutions, subject to the concurrence of the
Secretary of Finance and the Secretary of Budget and Management, funding, technical and
other forms of assistance for government projects in the Basin;

i. Extend the necessary planning, management and technical assistance to existing and
prospective investors;

j. Exercise such other powers as may be assigned by the President.

Section 5. Secretariat Support. The Commission shall be assisted by a full time Secretariat which
shall be headed by an Executive Director. The Secretariat shall have such number of personnel as may
be necessary for the efficient and effective performance of the Commission’s functions. Whenever
necessary, the Commission may tap the support and assistance of concerned LGUs and government
agencies.

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The Executive Director shall be appointed by the President upon the recommendation of the
Chairman of the Commission. The Executive Director shall be a Filipino citizen with outstanding
knowledge and experience in the field of public and development administration, public infrastructure
management, or the management of industrial or commercial enterprises, and environmental protection
and management.

Section 6. Funding. The Department of Budget and Management shall identify funding sources
and appropriate funds as may be required in the operation of the Commission.

Section 7. Reporting Clause. The Commission shall submit annual reports to the President on its
activities and accomplishments.

Section 8. Conduct of Meetings. The Commission shall meet regularly to assess the progress of
government initiatives in the area, particularly the implementation of the Master Plan.

Section 9. Repealing Clause. All executive orders, administrative orders, rules and regulations
which are inconsistent with the provisions of this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified
accordingly.

Section 10. Separability Clause. If any of the provisions of this Order shall be declared
unconstitutional, the other provisions of this Order shall remain valid.

Section 11. Effectivity. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the city of General Santos this 28th day of February, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 77

CREATING THE BANAUE RICE TERRACES TASK FORCE FOR THE PURPOSE OF
RESTORING, MAINTAINING AND ADMINISTERING THE DEVELOPMENT

OF THE RICE TERRACES

WHEREAS, major cultural and natural landmarks should be preserved, developed and
maintained for the perpetuation of Filipino heritage and the enhancement of our national identity;

WHEREAS, the Ifugao rice terraces are a priceless legacy as one of man’s best engineering
achievement and a major tourist attraction in the Philippines;

WHEREAS, the Ifugao rice terraces are increasingly being threatened with destruction not only
by traditional causes of decay but also changing social and economic conditions;

WHEREAS, to preserve and enhance the cultural and historical value of the rice terraces, it
is imperative that a special organization be created to undertake the vital role and responsibility of
restoring, maintaining and developing the Ifugao rice terraces;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested in me by the Constitution, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Creation of the Banaue Rice Terraces Task Force. There is hereby created under
the Office of the President a Presidential Task Force to be called the Banaue Rice Terraces Task Force
for the restoration and preservation of the rice terraces in the municipalities of Banaue, Aguinaldo,
Hingyon, Hungduan, Kiangan, Lagawe, Mayoyao and Tinoc in Ifugao, herein after referred to as the
Task Force composed of the following:

Secretary of Tourism
Undersecretary of Agriculture

Undersecretary of Environment and Natural Resources
Undersecretary of Public Works and Highways
Congressman of Ifugao
Governor of Ifugao

President of the Mayor’s League of Ifugao

Chairman

Vice-Chairman

Member

A technical secretariat to the Task Force headed by an Executive Director is likewise created. The
Executive Director shall be appointed by the President.

SEC. 2. Functions and Powers. The Task Force shall have the following functions and powers:

a. Formulate, coordinate and execute policies on the implementation of all programs, projects
and activities of the government affecting or relating to the Ifugao rice terraces;

b. Initiate, plan, undertake and supervise the restoration, maintenance and development of the
rice terraces walls, irrigations, dikes, paddies, watersheds, access roads and view decks;

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c. Provide livelihood opportunities as an alternate employment for the constituents of these
municipalities;

d. Sponsor and conduct cultural activities in the area;

e. To contract, lease, sell, dispose, acquire and own properties;

f. Receive, take and hold by bequest, device, donation, gift from foreign and domestic sources,
either absolutely or in trust for any of its purpose any assets, grant or property, invest and
reinvest the same and deal with and expand its assets and income in such manner as will best
promote its objectives;

g. Enter into contracts with any private person or entity or any government agency, either
domestic or foreign, whenever necessary for the effective discharge of its functions and
responsibilities under such terms and conditions as it may deem proper and reasonable;

h Provide grants for the conduct of historical, architectural or scientific researches pertaining to
the rice terraces and for other purposes in furtherance of its objectives;

To adopt, alter and use a corporate seal; and

j Exercise all powers as may be necessary, essential or incidental to the attainment of its
objectives.

SEC. 3. Development Master Plan. The TASK FORCE upon approval of this Executive Order, shall
immediately prepare a master development plan for the restoration, development and maintenance of
the Ifugao Rice Terraces, including but not limited to tourism development, environmental protection,
social, cultural and economic concerns. Said master development plan shall be incorporated by the
concerned agencies in their respective agency development program for the ensuing years.

SEC. 4. Dissolution of the Ifugao Terraces Commission. Subject to the provisions of existing
laws, the Ifugao Terraces Commission is hereby dissolved. All functions, assets, liabilities, records,
appropriation, properties, facilities and equipment of the Ifugao Terraces Commission are hereby
transferred to the TASK FORCE.

SEC. 5. Repealing Clause. EO 158 and EO 178 and other issuances, decrees, which are
inconsistent with this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified.

SEC. 6. Effectivity. This Executive Order shall take effect upon its approval.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 04 th day of MARCH, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 78

DEACTIVATION OF THE MUNICIPAL TELEPHONE PROJECTS OFFICE

WHEREAS, Republic Act No. 6849 dated 8 February 1990 provided for the installation,
operation and maintenance of public telephones in each and every municipality in the Philippines;

WHEREAS, the Municipal Telephone Projects Office (MTPO), created under the Department of
Transportation and Communications to administer the provisions of RA 6849, has a life not exceeding
ten years, starting February 1990;

WHEREAS, the Telecommunications Office of the DOTC is mandated to provide, among others,
telecommunications services in areas where no such services are available and assist the private sector
engage in telecommunications services;

WHEREAS, the MTPO was given zero allocation under the 1999 General Appropriations Act
and has scaled down its operations in view thereof;

WHEREAS, there is need to ensure continued provision of telecommunications services to the
countrysides;

WHEREAS, there is need to rationalize the functions and programs relative to the provision of
telephone services in the countryside;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

Section 1. Deactivation of the Municipal Telephone Projects Office. The Municipal Telephone
Projects Office under the Department of Transportation and Communications is hereby deactivated.

Section 2. Transfer of Functions, Resources and Obligations. Pursuant to the deactivation of
MTPO, all its functions, programs, equipment, facilities, records, and other properties as well as its
obligations are hereby transferred to the Telecommunications Office of the DOTC.

Section 3. Disposition of Personnel. The Secretary of Transportation and Communications is
directed to review the need for the personnel of the Office for eventual termination or integration to
the Telecommunications Office, and to submit recommendations to the President within 30 days from
the effectivity of this Order.

Section 4. Separability Clause. Any portion or provision of this Executive Order that may be
declared unconstitutional shall not have the effect of nullifying other portions or provisions for as long
as such remaining portions can still subsist and be given effect.

Section 5. Repealing Clause. All executive rules, regulations and other issuances or parts thereof
which are inconsistent with the provisions of this Executive Order are hereby revoked or modified
accordingly.

Section 6. Effectivity. This Executive Order shall take effect fifteen (15) days after the completion
of its publication in at least one national newspaper of general circulation.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 05 th day of March, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety-nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 79

DECLARING THE PALARO NG BAYAN AS THE NATIONAL COMMUNITY

SPORTS PROGRAM

WHEREAS, Section 13, Article II of the 1987 Constitution “ recognizes the vital role of youth in
nation building and shall promote and protect their physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual and social
well-being

WHEREAS, Section 19 (1), Article XIV thereon provides “that the State shall promote physical
education and encourage sports programs, league competitions and amateur sports, including training
for international competitions, to foster self discipline, teamwork, and excellence for the development
of a healthy and alert citizenry.”

WHEREAS, the Local Government Code (R.A. 7160) mandates all Local Chief Executives to
“ conduct an annual Palarong Barangay, Pambayan, Panglungsod, and Panlalawigan, ivhich shall feature
traditional sports and disciplines included in national and international games

WHEREAS, Executive Order Nos. 63 and 64, series of 1993, provide a nationwide organizational
network such as the National Physical Fitness and Sports Development Council (NPFSDC) to assist
the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) in the implementation of the National Policy and Program
for “Sports for All,” particularly the enhancement of community sports programs and grassroots
participation; and,

WHEREAS, community sports can serve as recruitment base to discover new talents, upgrade
skills, pursue sports specialization, including the education and training of the youth for participation
in higher level sports competitions.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law do hereby order:

SECTION 1. A pproval and Adoption of the Palaro ng Bavan as the National Community Sports
Program . The Palaro ng Bayan (hereinafter referred to as the “Program”) is hereby adopted as the
National Community Sports Program aimed to enhance grassroots sports and bolster the promotion
and propagation of sports nationwide. For this purpose, the third week of May of every year is hereby
declared the “ Palaro ng Bayan Week.”

a. Stages of Competition . The Program is a community based multi-event sports meet. The
stages of competition, are as follows:

i. Municipal Level . All barangays will compete in a municipal level meet to determine the
composition of the municipal delegation.

ii. Provincial Chapter Level . All municipalities will send their respective delegations to
the provincial chapter meet to determine the composition of the provincial chapter
delegation.

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iii. National Level . All provincial chapters will send their respective contingents to the Palaro
ng Bayan-National Level.

b. Eligibility Requirements . The following are the eligibility requirements for the participants:

i. Only bonafide residents of the barangay/municipality in the last twelve (12) months as
certified by the Municipal Civil Registrar are qualified to participate in the Program.

ii. The program is open only to athletes from 13 to 18 years of age except those entered in
the Baseball Little League competitions.

iii. National athletes, members of the National Training Pool, members of the Armed Forces
of the Philippines, and those who have competed in international meets and international
age-group competitions are disqualified from the Program.

SEC. 2. Creation of a National Palaro ng Bavan Coordinating Committee . There is hereby created
a National Palaro ng Bayan Coordinating Committee (hereinafter referred to as the “Committee”) to
closely coordinate and oversee the implementation of the program.

SEC. 3. Functions . The Committee shall have the following functions:

a. Formulate the Palaro ng Bayan Program and Implementation Plan;

b. Plan, organize and implement the yearly conduct of the event beginning at the municipal/city
level and graduating to the national level;

c. Secure the necessary budgetary, technical and human resources support for the effective
implementation of the Program;

d. Identify major problem areas in the implementation of the Program and recommend
necessary measures thereon;

e. Prepare and implement a communication plan to generate support for the Program,
particularly among the youth; and,

f. Perform such other functions as may be directed by the President.

SEC. 4. Composition . The Committee shall be chaired by the Chairman of the Philippine Sports
Commission (PSC), Co-Chaired by the Undersecretary of DILG, with the following as members:

President, League of Provinces
President, League of Cities
President, League of Municipalities
President, Liga ng mga Barangay

President, Pambansang Pederasyon ng Sangguniang Kabataan

SEC. 5. Secretariat . Secretariat support to the Committee shall be provided jointly by PSC and
DILG.

SEC. 6. Funding . The funds necessary for the implementation of the program, including fund
sources thereof, shall be determined by the Committee in coordination with the Department of Budget
and Management (DBM).

SEC. 7. Assistance from Other Government Agencies. Private Sector Groups and Sports
Organizations . All concerned national government agencies are hereby directed to extend full support,

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cooperation and active involvement in the promotion and public awareness generation for the
Program.

All Local Government Units (LGUs) constituting the Physical Fitness and Sports Development
Councils (PFSDCs) are hereby enjoined to extend full support and active participation to the program.

The Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) and National Sports Associations (NSAs) are hereby
encouraged to lend their support and cooperation to the program.

SEC. 8. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 05 th day of March, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 80

TRANSFERRING THE CULTURAL CENTER OF THE PHILIPPINES, COMMISSION ON
FILIPINO LANGUAGE, NATIONAL MUSEUM, NATIONAL HISTORICAL INSTITUTE,
NATIONAL LIBRARY, AND RECORDS MANAGEMENT AND ARCHIVES OFFICE TO
THE NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR CULTURE AND THE ARTS FOR POLICY AND

PROGRAM COORDINATION

WHEREAS, the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), Commission on Filipino Language
(CFL) and the National Museum are agencies attached to the Office of the President (OP);

WHEREAS, the National Historical Institute (NHI), National Library (NL) and the Records
Management and Archives Office (RMAO) are agencies attached to the Department of Education,
Culture and Sports (DECS);

WHEREAS, these cultural agencies are mandated to ensure the preservation, development, and
promotion of Philippine culture;

WHEREAS, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) is mandated by Republic
Act No. 7356 to coordinate the implementation of policies and programs on the development of
culture and arts in coordination with cultural agencies;

WHEREAS, the mandate of the cultural agencies and the program of government to achieve a
coordinated implementation of policies and programs for the development of culture and arts could be
properly effected if the cultural agencies are placed under the NCCA;

WHEREAS, Sec. 21, Chapter 8, Title II, Book III of the Administrative Code of 1987 defines the
organization of the Office of the President as consisting of the Office of the President Proper and the
agencies under it;

WHEREAS, the NCCA, by virtue of Sec. 23, Chapter 8, Title II, Book III of the Administrative
Code of 1987, is an agency attached to the Office of the President; and,

WHEREAS, Sec. 31, Chapter 10, paragraph 3, Title III, Book III of the Administrative Code
of 1987 grants the President the continuing authority to transfer any agency under the Office of the
President to any other department or agency as well as transfer agencies to the Office of the President
from other departments or agencies.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Transfer . The following cultural agencies are hereby transferred from OP and DECS
to NCCA, which shall exercise administrative supervision over them:

a. Cultural Center of the Philippines;

b. Commission on Filipino Language;

c. National Historical Institute;

d. National Library;

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e. National Museum; and,

f. Records Management and Archives Office

Sec. 2. Powers and Functions . These agencies shall continue to operate and function in accordance
with their respective charters or laws creating them, except as otherwise provided herein.

Sec. 3. Coordination Between NCCA And The Cultural Agencies . The NCCA shall devise such
cooperative and collaborative arrangement and working relationship with the attached agencies
designated above to ensure their involvement and participation as active partners of the said
Commission in the pursuit of its mandate and objectives under the Constitution and the law.

The aforementioned attached agencies shall periodically report to NCCA on the progress of their
programs and projects.

Sec. 4. A ppropriations . Such sums as may be needed to carry out the provisions of this Executive
Order which are appropriated for the cultural agencies at the time of the approval of this Executive
Order shall continue to be carried in subsequent annual General Appropriations Act.

Sec. 5. Repealing Clause . All Executive Orders, Rules and Regulations or parts thereof contrary
to or inconsistent with this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

Sec. 6. Effectivitv . This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, Philippines, this 05 th day of March, in the year of Our Lord,
Nineteen Elundred and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

President of the Republic of the Philippines

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 81

TRANSFERRING THE SPORTS PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES OF THE DEPARTMENT OF
EDUCATION, CULTURE AND SPORTS (DECS) TO THE PHILIPPINE SPORTS COMMISSION
(PSC) AND DEFINING THE ROLE OF DECS IN SCHOOL-BASED SPORTS

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the State to promote physical education, encourage and sustain the
development of sports in the country, foster physical fitness, self-discipline, teamwork, and excellence
for the development of a healthy and alert citizenry through a unified national sports promotion and
development program;

WHEREAS, under Section 5 of Executive Order No. 117 (s. 1987), the Department of Education,
Culture and Sports (DECS) is mandated to formulate, plan, implement and coordinate policies, plans,
programs and projects for physical education;

WHEREAS, Section 16 thereof mandates the DECS - Bureau of Physical Education and School
Sports (BPESS) to develop human resources through mass-based sports education; promote the revival
of indigenous games and sports; identify and nurture sports talents and promote excellence in sports,
traditional games and other physical activities;

WHEREAS, in view thereof, DECS-BPESS supervises and implements various sports programs
and projects at the national, regional, provincial and district levels and provides financial augmentation
to other government and non-government organizations for the conduct of their respective sports
activities;

WHEREAS, pursuant to R.A. 6847 (s. of 1990), the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is
mandated to plan, implement and oversee an integrated amateur sports promotion and development
program for the country, being the sole policy-making and coordinating body of all amateur sports
development programs and institutions in the Philippines;

WHEREAS, there is need to rationalize the implementation of sports programs and activities with
the end in view of avoiding duplication and maximizing limited resources for sports development;

WHEREAS, Section 21, Chapter 8, Title II, Book III of the Administrative Code of 1987 defines
the organization of the Office of the President as consisting of the Office of the President Proper and
the agencies under it;

WHEREAS, the PSC, by virtue of Section 23, Chapter 8, Title II, Book III of the Administrative
Code of 1987 and Section 4 of R.A. 6847 (s. 1990), is an agency attached to the Office of the President;
and,

WHEREAS, paragraph 2, Section 31, Chapter 10, Title III, Book III of the Administrative Code of
1987 grants the President the continuing authority to reorganize the Office of the President by, among
others, transferring any function, to include certain programs, from other Departments and/or Agencies
to the Office of the President.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

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SECTION 1. Transferring the Sports Programs and Activities of the DECS to the PSC . All the

functions, programs and activities of DECS related to sports development as provided for in Sec. 16 of
E.O. 117 (s. 1987) are hereby transferred to PSC.

Sec. 2. Defining the Role of DECS in School-Based Sports . The DECS shall have jurisdiction and
function over the enhancement of Physical Education (P.E.) curriculum and its application in whatever
form inside schools.

Sec. 3. Role of PSC . As the primary agency tasked to formulate policies and oversee the national
sports development program, the management and implementation of all school-based sports
competitions among schools at the district, provincial, regional, national and international levels, in
coordination with concerned public and private entities shall be transferred to PSC.

Sec. 4. Implementing Guidelines . The PSC, in coordination with the DECS and other concerned
entities, shall formulate the rules and guidelines for the effective implementation of this Order within
forty-five days after its effectivity.

Sec. 5. Repealing Clause . All Executive Orders, Administrative Orders and other executive
issuances inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed, modified or amended accordingly.

Sec. 6. Effectivity . This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, Philippines, this 05 th day of March, in the year of Our Lord,
Nineteen Hundred and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

President of the Republic of the Philippines

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 82

INSTITUTIONALIZING THE LEGACY OF LHE EDSA PEOPLE POWER REVOLULION BY
CREALING AN EDSA PEOPLE POWER COMMISSION LO PERPELUALE AND PROPAGALE

LHE SPIRIL OF EDSA

WHEREAS, there is a need to safeguard the truth of history of the martial law years, and a need
to remember the struggle for freedom and democracy during this period;

WHEREAS, our national spirit was forged through a ceaseless struggle for freedom of Filipinos
who rose against colonial masters to become a nation of our own aspiration and creation, molded and
formed by our national and collective history as a people, with our own culture, values, ethos, political
identity and national psyche;

WHEREAS, the February 22-25, 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution which restored democratic
institutions and ushered meaningful political, social, and economic reforms in the country serves as an
inspiration as we continue to chart our collective course as a nation and a people;

WHEREAS, the triumph of this revolution was anchored upon people power, the ultimate
demonstration of the citizen’s solidarity in seeking to transform Philippine society, and to chart a new
course for the country’s history by linking arms and courageously asserting our democratic rights;

WHEREAS, the Filipinos astounded the world with feats of valor during the four historic days of
the EDSA People Power Revolution on February 22-25, 1986 showing other captive people the way
towards a peaceful political revolution of our time, thereby winning the respect and admiration of the
world;

WHEREAS, there is a need to institutionalize the legacy of EDSA People Power Revolution,
rooted in the same spirit that brought our people to freedom a century ago, through a dedicated
organization established specifically to institute appropriate means, activities and concerted action that
will serve to enshrine EDSA People Power as a continuing and permanent source of inspiration for
future generations.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order the following:

SECTION 1. Creation of the Commission. There is hereby constituted an EDSA People Power
Commission (hereinafter referred to as the “Commission”) that will closely coordinate with the Spirit
of EDSA Foundation and other similar private sector groups to perpetuate and propagate the spirit of
the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution.

SEC. 2. Functions. The Commission shall have the following functions:

a. Initiate activities that will expand awareness of the principles and values that the EDSA People

Power Revolution stands for;

b. Plan, organize and implement the yearly commemoration of the February 22-25, 1986 EDSA

Revolution every 25 th of February;

c. Ensure the continued management of the People Power Monument;

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d. Provide the property and logistical requirements for the EDSA Freedom Center, EDSA Museum
and Institute of Freedom and Democracy, and effect the appropriate legal instruments thereon;

e. Submit regular reports to the President; and,

f. Perform such other functions as may be directed by the President.

SEC. 3. Composition. The Commission shall be chaired by a Cabinet Member designated by the
President and Co-Chaired by a private sector representative to be appointed by the President.

The Commission shall have 25 members who shall serve for a period of six years. For the initial
composition of the Commission, thirteen members shall serve for a period of six years, while twelve
members shall serve for a period of three years.

The members shall be appointed by the President of the Philippines based on the recommendations
of the Chairperson and Co-Chairperson of the Commission.

Lifetime honorary membership to the Commission shall be given to Former President Corazon C.
Aquino, Former President Fidel V. Ramos, and Manila Archbishop Jaime Cardinal Sin.

SEC. 4. Secretariat. Secretariat support to the Commission shall be provided by the Chairman of
the Commission.

SEC. 5. Funding. The Secretary of Budget and Management shall allocate for the Commission
the amount of THREE MILLION PESOS as development fund in support of the Commission.
Appropriations for succeeding years shall be incorporated in the regular budget of the Office of the
President.

Funds derived from sources other than those coming from the government will be accounted for
separately in accordance with generally accepted accounting/auditing procedures and will be regularly
reported to the Commission.

SEC. 6. Assistance from Other Agencies and Private Sector Groups. The Commission may call
on other government agencies and instrumentalities and invite private sector groups and individuals to
participate in its activities and programs.

SEC. 7. Repealing Clause. All orders and issuances which are inconsistent with this Executive
Order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

SEC. 8. Separability Clause. If any part or provision of this Executive Order is held invalid or
unconstitutional, the other parts or provisions not affected thereby shall remain valid and effective.
SEC. 9. Effectivity. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 22 nd day of February, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999).
Presidential Management Staff.

[Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 83

STRENGTHENING THE ENFORCEMENT OF THE AGRI-AGRA LAW (PD 717) AND
LAUNCHING THE NDC AGRI-AGRA ERAP BONDS FOR RURAL DEVELOPMENT

WHEREAS, the Government has, as a matter policy, given the highest priority to the development
of the agricultural and agrarian sectors and in connection therewith, has called upon the private sector
to share in the responsibility of promoting and improving the productivity of these sectors;

WHEREAS, a basic social policy has been laid by Presidential Decree No. 717, entitled “Providing
an Agrarian Reform Credit and Financing System for Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Through Banking
Institutions” or the Agri-Agra Law, requiring the banking sector to allocate at least 25% of its loanable
funds for agricultural credit in general, of which 10% of said loanable funds shall be made available to
agrarian reform beneficiaries as defined therein;

WHEREAS, various related Republic Acts have expanded the modes of compliance by the
banking sector with PD 717, to wit:

Section 9, RA 7721

Extension of development loans for educational institutions, cooperatives, hospitals and other
medical services; socialized or low-cost housing and local government units without national
government guarantee

Section 11(b), RA 7835

Mandatory investment of all unused Agri-Agra allocation funds in socialized and low cost
housing

Section 8, RA 7900

Exemption of banks from compliance requirement of PD 717 when at least 5% of loanable
funds are directly lent to farmers’ association or cooperatives

WHEREAS, there is a need to increase and further improve compliance by the banking sector
with the provisions of PD 717 through an alternative compliance mechanism to be able to increase the
productivity of the agriculture and agrarian sectors;

WHEREAS, Section 4 of PD 717 allows the banking sector to invest in government securities
declared eligible by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), and invest any portion of the amount set
aside for agrarian reform credit not actually loaned out as a mechanism for alternative compliance
with the requirements of PD 717;

WHEREAS, Section 9 of PD 1648, the Revised Charter of the National Development Company
(NDC), authorizes NDC to issue, upon recommendation of the Secretary of Finance (DOF) and
approval of the President, tax exempt bonds and securities guaranteed by the government to finance its
operations;

WHEREAS, there is a need to authorize the issuance of long term bonds by NDC which shall
be called NDC Agri-Agra Economic Recovery through Agricultural Productivity (ERAP) Bonds to

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support projects for economic growth under a revitalized rural development program undertaken by
NDC in cooperation with the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and the private sector;

NOW THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, for the effective and efficient implementation of PD 717 and in order to address the
government’s priority program, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

Section 1. Title. This Executive Order shall otherwise be known as the “Launching of the
NDC Agri-Agra Economic Recovery through Agricultural Productivity (ERAP) Bonds for Rural
Development.”

Section 2. Enforcement of PD 717 and Institution of Penalties. The BSP shall intensify the
enforcement of PD 717 for the banking sector to support the credit requirements of the agricultural
and agrarian reform sectors and shall institute the necessary penalties for non-compliance.

Section 3. Authorizing the Issuance of NDC Agri-Agra ERAP Bonds in support of Alternative
Compliance Mechanisms and Rural Credit Mobilization. NDC is hereby authorized to undertake
the issuance of the NDC Agri-Agra ERAP Bonds in the total amount of up to Fifty Billion Pesos
(P50, 000, 000, 000. 00) which shall be guaranteed by the Republic of the Philippines.

The features of the NDC Agri-Agra ERAP bonds shall be determined and fixed by NDC in
consultation with the DOF, which features shall be competitive with existing bonds and securities in
circulation in the Philippine market.

The purchase or underwriting of these bonds by the banking sector shall serve as compliance by it
with the provisions PD 717.

Section 4. Mobilization and Utilization of the Proceeds of the NDC Agri-Agra ERAP Bonds. The

proceeds from the issuance of the NDC Agri-Agra ERAP Bonds, hereinafter referred to as the Fund,
shall be jointly managed by NDC and DAR.

The Fund shall be used exclusively for the development of the agriculture and agrarian sectors
and in the implementation of identified development priority projects of NDC and of the Department
of Agriculture and Agrarian Reform for these sectors, such as but not limited to, rice production joint
ventures, establishment of food chains, livestock and agri-processing support services and facilities, and
similar undertakings.

Consistent with NDC’s mandate as the corporate vehicle of the government, the NDC shall act as
the DAR’s corporate arm in the mobilization and utilization of the Fund.

Section 5. Implementing Rules and Regulations. The BSP, in close coordination with DOF, DAR
and NDC, shall promulgate the implementing rules and regulations necessary to effectively implement,
and improve compliance by the banking sector with, the provisions of PD 717 and this Executive
Order.

The implementing rules and regulations shall utilize an integrated, holistic or systematic approach
in defining the scope of beneficiaries of the Fund, to include but not limited to providers of production
input, critical social, development services or products, processors, distributors, or markets of
communities which have agrarian reform beneficiaries or landless peasants.

The implementing rules and regulations shall also utilize alternative modes of fund utilization to
improve the efficiency and effectiveness of projects in these sectors, to include guarantees, concessional
co-financing loans, equity or quasi-equity and quasi-debt instrument in project trusts bonds or
securities of qualified project enterprises, and such other models as may be determined by the NDC
and DAR.

Section 6. Taxation. Pursuant to Section 9, PD 1648, interest income on the Agri-Agra ERAP
Bonds shall be exempt from the payment of taxes.

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Section 7. Repealing Clause. All issuances, executive or administrative orders, and/or rules
and regulations or parts thereof, which are inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed or modified
accordingly.

Done in the City of Manila, this 25 th day of December, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety eight.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1998). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 84

DECLARING MARCH AS THE RABIES AWARENESS MONTH, RATIONALIZING THE
CONTROL MEASURES FOR THE PREVENTION AND ERADICATION OF RABIES AND

APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR

WHEREAS, rabies is a dangerous disease of dog transmissible to humans through the bite of an
infected animal;

WHEREAS, approximately 560,000 bite cases are reported every year;

WHEREAS, rabies accounts for the loss of approximately 300-400 Filipino lives every year and
causes much agony and suffering to victims and their families before death;

WHEREAS, the disease can be prevented through mass immunization of pet dogs and responsible
pet ownership;

WHEREAS, leashing of dogs and control of stray dogs are important complementary strategies in
the control and eradication of rabies;

WHEREAS, information and education on rabies prevention measures, first aid for dog bites, and
other relevant facts concerning rabies are critical for its eradication;

WHEREAS, the failure to eradicate rabies in the country greatly affects the public health and
safety of the Filipino people;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue of
the powers vested in me by law, do hereby declare that the month of March every year shall henceforth
be known as the Rabies Awareness Month, and order:

SECTION. 1. A massive information drive on rabies shall be held nationwide every year in the
month of March, complemented by a mass immunization of dogs in key areas nationwide and that the
vaccines shall be provided for free to the public.

SEC. 2. During the Rabies Awareness Month, the cooperating agencies of the Department of
Agriculture-Bureau of Animal Industry (DA-BAI), Department of Health-Communicable Disease
Control Service (DOH-CDCS), Department of Education, Culture and Sports (DECS), and the
Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) - Provincial Veterinary Office shall conduct
seminars, fora, radio and television plugs, symposiums and other information campaigns in
coordination with one another.

The DA-BAI shall procure sufficient number of vaccines, and vaccination paraphernalia to cover
the key areas during the mass immunization of dogs nationwide;

SEC. 3. There is hereby created a National Rabies Prevention and Control Committee (NRPCC)
to be composed of representatives from DA-BAI, DOH-CDCS, DECS, DILG and NGO (Philippine
Veterinary Medical Association [PVMA], Veterinary Practitioners Association of Philippines [VPAP]
and the Philippine Society of Veterinary Public Health [PSVPH]) to formulate policies and coordinate
implementation of the national rabies prevention and control program (NRPCP). A Rabies Control

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Section shall be created at the BAI which shall be responsible for the implementation and monitoring
of the NRPCP.

SEC. 4. All concerned government agencies, including local government units, shall immediately
report to the BAI any occurrence of the diseases in their respective areas of jurisdiction. They shall
provide all necessary assistance to the BAI-NRPC Task Force operating within their jurisdictions.
Further, in case a local government unit is declared as a rabies-infected area by the DA-BAI,
five (5) percent of the contingency fund allocated from its Internal Revenue Allotment may be used
for the procurement of vaccines and vaccination paraphernalia necessary for the control of rabies in
their respective areas.

SEC. 5. Subject to government accounting and auditing procedures, the amount of forty million
pesos (PHP 40,000,000.00) shall be allocated for the rabies awareness month every fiscal year to cover
the cost of the rabies vaccines and the cost of the printing of information materials as wells as the
cost of the radio and television plugs, and logistical expenses for the information and immunization
campaigns. The Department of Budget and Management shall allocate from the lump sum
appropriations of the General Appropriations Act the necessary amount. Funding for the succeeding
year shall be included in the budget proposal of the Department of Health.

SEC. 6. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 13 th day of March, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999).
Presidential Management Staff.

[Executive Order Nos.:

338]. Manila:

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 85

GRANTING THE NATIONAL DEFENSE COLLEGE OF THE PHILIPPINES (NDCP)
AUTHORITY TO CREATE, ESTABLISH, MAINTAIN, MERGE AND ABOLISH INSTITUTES
AND CENTERS OF LEARNING AND SPECIAL STUDIES DEVOTED TO NATIONAL SECURITY
ADMINISTRATION AND TO ACCEPT GRANTS AND ENDOWMENTS, TO RECEIVE IN
TRUST LEGACIES, DEVISES, DONATIONS IN CASH OR PROPERTY AND TO ADMINISTER
AND UTILIZE THE SAME FOR THE BENEFIT OF THIS INSTITUTION AND

FOR OTHER PURPOSES

WHEREAS, Presidential Decree 190, as amended by Presidential Decree 452, created and
organized the National Defense College of the Philippines (NDCP) to conduct advanced programs in
national security administration;

WHEREAS, under Sections 60-62, Chapter 10, Subtitle II, Title VIII, of Executive Order No. 292,
and the implementing rules and regulations of PD 190, as amended, the College is mandated to train
and develop the skills and upgrade the competence of potential national defense leaders, civilian
officials of the different agencies and instrumentalities of the government and selected executives from
the private sector in the formulation and implementation of national security policies and for high
command and staff duty;

WHEREAS, in order to effectively fulfill its mission and attain its objective, the College would
need to have specific authority to create, establish, maintain and later, merge or even abolish institutes
and centers of learning and special studies devoted to national security administration and adopt
academic, training and research programs;

WHEREAS, there is an urgent need to supplement the continuing annual appropriations made
by Congress to the College by grants, endowments, bequests, donations and contributions from
individuals, corporations and other entities that are aware of the tremendous responsibilities of the
institution and are able and willing to provide continuing support to it, financially, or otherwise, and
thus enable the College to successfully implement its plans and programs;

WHEREAS, under Section 12 of RA 8745, otherwise known as the 1999 General Appropriations
Act, the NDCP is authorized to accept donations, contributions, grants, bequests or gifts, in cash or in
kind, to be administered and disbursed subject to conditions stipulated in the same section;

WHEREAS, there is a need to ensure continuity in the plans and programs of the College by a
fixed term of office for its officials and faculty.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the power and authority vested in me by law, do hereby order that:

SECTION 1. Subject to the approval of the Secretary of National Defense, the National Defense
College of the Philippines shall have the authority to create, establish, maintain, merge and abolish
institutes and centers of learning and special studies for national security administration, adopt and
implement academic and other training programs within the framework of its responsibility and in
accordance with the general objectives and in pursuit of its assigned mission. For this purpose, it shall
utilize funds appropriated for its general operation as well as the funds and property that hereafter

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may be received in the form of grants, endowments, legacies devises and donations from any and all
sources whatsoever, including seminar and conference fees as provided for under Sec. 8, of RA 8745.

SEC. 2. The National Defense College of the Philippines is hereby given the specific authority
to receive in trust, grants and endowment, accept legacies, devises and other donations in cash or
property, real or personal, to charge fees and raise funds and to use and administer the same, to the
credit and for the benefit of this institution provided that this authority will continue beyond Fiscal
Year 1999, and that these donations shall be kept and deposited by the NDCP in a separate account to
be disbursed subject to the usual accounting and auditing rules and regulations.

SEC. 3. In order to ensure continuity in the plans and programs of the College and in the pursuit
of its mandate, the President, the Executive Vice-Presidents and all the Vice-Presidents of the National
Defense College of the Philippines shall be appointed for a term of six (6) years, without prejudice to
reappointment. They shall further be covered by the pertinent provisions of the omnibus law on the
charters of state colleges and universities.

SEC. 4. All executive orders, administrative orders, proclamation, rules and regulation or parts
thereof that are in conflict with this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly. If
any part or provision of this Order is declared unconstitutional or null and void, the rest shall remain
in effect and will not be affected thereby.

SEC. S. The Secretary of National Defense shall promulgate the rules and regulations for the
implementation of this Executive Order.

SEC. 6. This Executive Order takes effect immediately.

Done in the City of Manila, this 13 th day of March, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999).
Presidential Management Staff.

[ Executive Order Nos.: 1

338]. Manila:

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MALACANAN PALACE
MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 86

PROVIDING FOR THE CREATION OF THE NATIONAL FOOD SECURITY COUNCIL,
COUNCILS ON FOOD SECURITY FOR THE PROVINCES, INDEPENDENT COMPONENT
CITIES (ICCs) AND HIGHLY URBANIZED CITIES (HUCs), NATIONAL SECRETARIAT ON
FOOD SECURITY AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

WHEREAS, Article II, Section 9 of the 1987 Constitution provides that the State shall promote
a just and dynamic social order that will ensure the prosperity and independence of the nation and
free the people from poverty through policies that provide adequate social services, promote full
employment, a rising standard of living, and an improved quality of life for all;

WHEREAS, Section II of Republic Act No. 8435, otherwise known as the Agriculture and
Fisheries Modernization Act of 1997, declares that the State shall enable those who belong to the
agriculture and fisheries sectors to participate and share in the fruits of development and growth, and
that the State shall ensure the availability, adequacy, accessibility and affordability of food supplies to
all at all times;

WHEREAS, by virtue of Republic Act No. 7160, otherwise known as the Local Government
Code of 1991, the local government units (LGUs) agree to perform their roles and responsibilities, in
coordination with all National Government Agencies (NGAs) concerned and the private sector, as the
principal stewards of the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Programs within their respective
jurisdiction in achieving the national targets necessary to attain food security for the country, especially
for the poor;

WHEREAS, in the pursuit of the mandates provided by the Constitution and existing laws,
the national and local governments have committed to ensure the attainment of sustainable food
security and the alleviation of poverty and the shaping of a safe, healthy and environmentally sound
society;

WHEREAS, a Food Security Covenant ‘99 has been adopted unanimously by the participants
to the Governors’ Workshop on Food Security held from January 10-12, 1999 recommending to the
President the creation of a government body that will address self-sufficiency in food production,
ensure the improvement of the standard of living of farmers and fisherfolk beyond the poverty
threshold, identify adequate funds in support of the Food Security Program, and promote coordination
among NGAs, LGUs and the private sector.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by the Constitution and the laws, do hereby order:

SEC. 1. Organization of the National Council on Food Security. - The National Council on Food
Security, herein referred to as NCFS, is hereby constituted to act as the overall coordinating body in the
formulation of policy guidelines and master plans and programs, as well as in the implementation of
projects that ensure the attainment of the national vision, mission, goals, objectives and targets of a
workable and sustainable Food Security Program.

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SEC. 2. Composition of the NCFS. - The NCFS shall be composed of the following:

(a) President of the Republic of the Philippines

(b) Secretary of Agriculture

(d) President, League of Provinces of the Philippines

(e) Secretary of Agrarian Reform

(f) Secretary of Trade and Industry

(g) Secretary of Budget and Management

(h) Secretary of Science and Technology

(i) Secretary of Health

(j) Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources

(k) Secretary of Public Works and Highways

(l) Chairman of Commission on Higher Education

(m) Chairman of National Irrigation Administration

(n) Administrator, National Food Authority

(o) Administrator, Cooperative Development Authority

(p) Lead Convenor of National Anti-Poverty Commission

(q) Governor, Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao

(r) President, League of Municipalities of the Philippines

(s) President, League of Cities of the Philippines

(t) President, National Liga ng mga Barangay

(u) Two (2) Representatives, Farmers Sector

(v) Two (2) Representatives, Fisheries Sector

(w) Two (2) Representatives, Business Sector

(x) Two (2) Representatives, Consumer Sector

Chairman

Vice-Chairman

Member

The Chairmen of the Senate and House Committees on Agriculture shall be invited as
Ex-officio members of the NCFS. The Chairman of the NCFS may designate other additional members
as he may deem necessary.

The President of the Philippines shall appoint the sectoral representatives upon the joint
recommendation of the Secretary of Agriculture, Secretary of Interior and Local Government, Secretary
of Trade and Industry, and the President of the League of Provinces of the Philippines (LPP).

SEC. 3. Duties and Functions of the NCFS. - The NCFS shall perform the following functions:

(a) To review all existing policies, plans, programs and projects of the government related to food
security;

(b) To formulate and recommend national policies, plans, and programs on food security,
particularly, in the agriculture and fisheries sectors;

(c) To design and adopt a comprehensive National Food Security Plan and Program, in
consonance with the medium and long-term Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Plan
as provided for in Republic Act No. 8435, after consultations with concerned NGAs, LGUs,
non-government organizations and local agriculture and fishery councils;

(d) To generate and mobilize resources from domestic and foreign sources for the implementation
of the National Food Security Program as well as rationalize the use and the equitable
distribution of such resources to LGUs;

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(e) To formulate the guidelines for the development and implementation of City/Provincial Food
Security Action Plans in accordance with the National Food Security Program;

(f) To design and implement a reward system and the appropriate mechanism specifically
granting, on an annual basis, the incentive(s) for provinces adjudged as excellent or
outstanding implementers of their respective Food Security Action Plan;

(g) To ensure the conduct of regular monitoring, evaluation, and validation of the Programs; and

(h) To call on any government agency or instrumentality as it may deem necessary in the exercise
of its functions.

SEC. 4. Organization of the Provincial/City Council on Food Security. - The NCFS shall
coordinate the organization in every province/ICC/HUC of a Council on Food Security herein referred
to as Provincial/City CFS, to ensure the attainment of the vision, mission, goals, objectives, and targets
of a workable and sustainable Food Security Action Plan.

SEC. 5. Composition of the Provincial/City CFS. - The Provincial/City CFS shall be composed of
the following:

(a)

Governor/City Mayor

Chairman

(b)

Provincial/City Agriculturist

- Vice-Chairman

(c)

Provincial/City Director, DILG

- Secretariat Head

(d)

Provincial/City Agrarian Reform Officer, DAR

Member

(e)

Provincial/City Manager, NFA

Member

(f)

Provincial/City Director, DTI

Member

(g)

Provincial/City Director, DOST

Member

(h)

Provincial/City Environment and Natural Resources Officer

Member

(i)

Provincial/City Officer, CDA

Member

(i)

Provincial/City Officer, PCA

Member

(k)

President, League of Cities (Provincial Chapter)

Member

(1)

President, League of Municipalities (Provincial Chapter)

Member

(m)

President, Liga ng mga Barangay (Provincial/City Chapter)

Member

(n)

Representative, State Colleges and Universities

Member

(o)

Representative, Farmers Sector

Member

(P)

Representative, Fisheries Sector

Member

(q)

Representative, Business Sector

Member

(r)

Representative, Consumer Sector

Member

The representatives of the sectors concerned shall be appointed by the Provincial Governor/City
Mayor upon the endorsement of the DILG and DA.

SEC. 6. Duties and Functions of the Provincial/City CFS. - The Provincial/City CFS shall perform
the following functions:

(a) To oversee the successful implementation of the Provincial/City Food Security Action Plan,
in close coordination with concerned NGAs or their respective field offices, component LGUs, and
NGOs/POs and private and business sector within their jurisdiction;

(b) To review, formulate, and recommend to the NCFS nationally significant and locally relevant
food security policies pursuant to the goals and objectives of the National Food Security Program;

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(c) To assist the Local Price Coordinating Council in the monitoring of prices of major food
commodities such as rice, corn, fish, vegetables, and other food items, and in finding ways for regulating
the prices of prime commodities in the locality within its jurisdiction;

(d) To facilitate access to production and marketing resources and opportunities for the food
industry sector through the initiation of agreements with government and private financing institutions;

(e) To ensure the availability and access to production inputs, post-harvest facilities, markets for
the local produce, appropriate technology, and technical assistance to farmers and fisherfolk;

(f) To ensure the availability of adequate and affordable food supply in the market by promoting
inter-LGU coordination, market linkages and trading of basic commodities;

(g) To monitor and evaluate the implementation of the Provincial/City Food Security Action Plan
on a semi-annual basis;

(h) To prepare and submit semi-annual reports of Program implementation to the NCFS through
the National Secretariat; and

(i) To perform other functions deemed necessary for the successful implementation of the Food
Security Program at the local level.

SEC. 7. Provincial/City Food Security Action Plan. - In accordance with the guidelines
promulgated by the NCFS, every province/ICC/HUC, through the Office of the Provincial Governor/
City Mayor must develop and implement a Provincial/City Food Security Action Plan which
incorporates the respective food security action plan inputs of the component cities and/or LGUs
within its jurisdiction, taking into account the actual needs and available resources of the province/city
in relation to food security and related programs and projects of NGAs concerned in their respective
areas.

All Provincial/City Food Security Action Plans shall be submitted to the NCFS through the
National Secretariat on the date prescribed by the NCFS.

SEC. 8. Funding and Administrative Support for the Food Security Program of the Province/
City. - All Governors/City Mayors, through their respective Sangguniang Panlalawigan/Panlunsod,
shall provide specific budgetary appropriation under the local development plan of the province/city,
for their Provincial/City Food Security Action Plan, including the setting up an agricultural engineering
unit to complement the extension services for the purpose.

As a counterpart support from the National Government, the Department of Agriculture and all
concerned NGAs shall allocate funds intended for the Food Security Program in accordance with the
criteria and guidelines to be formulated by the NCFS.

SEC. 9. Organization of the National Secretariat on Food Security. - The National Secretariat
on Food Security, herein referred to as National Secretariat, is hereby organized to coordinate and
implement such policies, implementing rules and regulations, as may be promulgated by the NCFS
and its constituent Provincial/City CFS. The National Secretariat shall likewise perform the following
functions:

(a) To provide administrative support and technical assistance to the NCFS and the Provincial/
City CFS, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and other NGAs concerned;

(b) To coordinate with all the agencies and organizations/sectors involved in the design of the
National Food Security Plan and its implementation;

(d) To validate and review the LGU Action Plans on Food Security;

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(e) To monitor and evaluate Program implementation in coordination with DILG/DA Regional
Offices;

(f) To assist the NCFS in the implementation of the reward/incentive system;

(g) To perform other functions that may be assigned by the NCFS.

The Secretariat shall be attached to DILG. An Executive Director who is appointed by the
President shall head the Secretariat. The Executive Director shall be assisted by two (2) Deputy
Executive Directors and an administrative staff. The Department of Agriculture, DILG, and LPP shall
provide the technical staff complement for the National Secretariat.

To supplement its manpower resources, each DILG Regional Office shall serve as extension office
of the Secretariat in the region. It shall assist the National Secretariat in the exercise of its functions at
the local level, in coordination with DA Regional Office. It shall coordinate with DILG Provincial/City
Office which shall act as the secretariat of the Local CLS for the effective discharge of its functions.

SEC. 10. Funding for the National Secretariat. - Lor the current year, 1999, the Department
of Agriculture shall provide funds for the operations of the National secretariat in the amount of
P20 Million to be taken from the l.a Agrikulturang Makamasa Program of the Department of
Agriculture. Thereafter, the Secretariat shall have its own budget incorporated in the yearly
appropriation for DILG.

SEC. 11. Inter-agency Coordination. - All concerned departments and their attached agencies,
LGUs, government-owned-and-controlled corporations (GOCCs), and other instrumentalities of
the government are hereby directed to cooperate and give their full support to the NCLS and the
Provincial/City CPS to ensure the effective performance of their functions.

SEC. 12. Administrative and Implementing Guidelines. - The NCLS shall adopt administrative
and implementing guidelines as may be necessary to implement this Executive Order.

SEC. 13. Effectivity. - This Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 13th day of March 1999.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 87
FACILITATING THE IMPORTATION OF SUGAR

WHEREAS, the Administration, in line with its thrust to promote the interest of the poor, aims to
ensure adequate food supply at prices affordable to the ordinary Filipino;

WHEREAS, for the year 1999, there is an estimated shortage of some 500,000 metric tons (MT)
of sugar due to the effects of the El Nino and La Nina phenomena;

WHEREAS, to augment the 1999 Minimum Access Volume of 48,393 MT of sugar, there is need
to immediately undertake additional importation to address the projected shortfall in supply and to
ensure the stable price of sugar in the domestic market;

WHEREAS, there is a pressing need to enhance the productivity and efficiency of the sugar
industry, and of the whole agricultural sector to enable them to compete in the increasingly competitive
global market;

WHEREAS, the Bureau of Treasury has not been able to fully remit to the Agricultural
Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (ACEF) the proceeds from the importation of the Minimum
Access Volume (MAV) of agricultural products as mandated under the Agricultural Tarrification Act
(RA 8178);

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order the following:

SECTION 1. Importation of Sugar. The government shall hereby facilitate the importation of
sugar through the private sector. Moreover, the government shall facilitate the in-quota importation of
48,393 MT of sugar, through the NFA, under the 1999 MAV.

The government shall also facilitate the conversion of sugar from “C” (reserve sugar) to “B”
(domestic sugar).

SECTION 2. Committee on Sugar Conversion/Auction. There is hereby created a Committee on
Sugar Conversion/Auction which shall be headed by the DA, with the following as members: NEDA,
DTI, DOF, SRA, and a representative each from the sugar planters’ group and the sugar millers’ group.
The Committee is hereby authorized to determine the parameters and procedures on the importation
of sugar by the private sector, and the collection and remittance of the fee for the conversion of sugar
from “C” to “B”.

SECTION 3. Conduct of Auction for Sugar Conversion. The conversion of “C” sugar to “B”
sugar shall be done through an auction and shall be subject to the collection of a fee to be called the
“Conversion Fee”.

The “Conversion Fee” shall be remitted to the Bureau of Treasury and may be used to pay the
arrears of government in the Agricultural Competitiveness Enhancement Fund.

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SECTION 4. Reclassification of Sugar. Pursuant to the parameters and procedures prepared by
the Committee, the SRA shall implement the reclassification of sugar from “C” to “B”, and undertake
the remittance of the Conversion Fee to the Bureau of Treasury.

SECTION 5. Reporting. The SRA shall monitor the domestic sugar situation and shall submit
through the Department of Agriculture, bi-monthly reports to the President on the matter.

SECTION 6. Effectivitry. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, Philippines, this 1 st day of April, in the year of our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). / Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 88

GRANTING RICE ALLOWANCE TO SOLDIERS ON COMBAT DUTY IN MINDANAO

WHEREAS, the government aims to promote the welfare of the members of the Armed Forces of
the Philippines (AFP);

WHEREAS, the current social unrest in Mindanao requires dedicated soldiers to enforce the law
and help maintain peace and order;

WHEREAS, the provision of non-monetary incentive to soldiers assigned on combat duty in
Mindanao shall boost their morale and uplift their spirit;

WHEREAS, the tight economic situation coupled with low income, contribute to their miseries;

WHEREAS, provision of direct support to their families shall encourage them to perform
effectively and promote peace of mind;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order the following:

Section 1. The National Food Authority (NFA) is hereby ordered to provide one sack of rice per
month to the families of soldiers currently on combat duty in Mindanao.

The rice allowance shall be forfeited in the event that a concerned soldier is no longer in active
duty or has been transferred to a non-combat area.

Section 2. Funding for the project shall be determined by the Department of Budget and
Management in coordination with the NFA and AFP.

Section 3. The NFA, DBM and the AFP shall jointly formulate the guidelines to implement the
Order, including the identification of qualified soldiers entitled to the rice allowance and the system of
distribution.

Section 4. This order shall take effect immediately.

Done in the City of Manila, this 5 th day of April, in the year of our Lord, Nineteen Hundred and
Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 89

EXTENDING THE PERIOD OF EXISTENCE OF THE IFUGAO TERRACES
COMMISSION TO MAY 15, 1999

WHEREAS, Executive Order No. 158, dated February 18, 1994 created the Ifugao Terraces
Commission to formulate short-term and long-term plans for the restoration and preservation of
the Ifugao Rice Terraces in the municipalities of Banaue, Kiangan, Hungduan, Mayoyao, Hingyon,
Asipulo, Tinoc, Lagawe and Aguinaldo;

WHEREAS, the Ifugao Terraces Commission has already formulated short-term and long-term
plans for the restoration and preservation of the Ifugao rice terraces and has promoted the accelerated
socio-economic development in the areas covered therein;

WHEREAS, Executive Order No. 77 s. 1999 provides for the creation of the Banaue Rice Terraces
Task Force and the dissolution of the Ifugao Terraces Commission, and transferring its functions,
assets, liabilities, records, appropriation, properties, facilities and equipment to Task Force; and

WHEREAS, there is a need to afford the Ifugao Terraces Commission (ITC) additional time
within which to wind up its affairs in time for the transfer of its function to the Banaue Rice Terraces
Task Force.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order the extension of the official
existence of the Ifugao Terraces Commission including its Secretariat until May 15, 1999, provided
that during said period, no new business/transactions will be entered into by ITC.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 5 th day of April, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 90

CREATING THE DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE CONTRACTUAL SAVINGS TASK FORCE

WHEREAS, the Presidential Commission for Retirement Income (PCRI) has been established to
undertake technical analysis of and recommend improvements on the retirement income system;

WHEREAS, in support of the PCRI and to enhance its capability to accomplish its assigned
tasks, it is necessary to adopt complementary measures that will ensure prompt and comprehensive
resolution of the most important issues affecting the pre-need industry and promote the growth of a
healthy occupational pension sector;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by the Constitution and by the law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Organization . There is hereby created a DOF Contractual Savings Task Force under
the supervision of the Department of Finance, composed of representatives of the life and non-life
insurance industry, pre-need industry, trust fund industry, the Bureau of Internal Revenue, the Insurance
Commission, the Philippine actuarial and accounting profession, and the Department of Finance for
taxation policy. The Task Force shall closely work with the representatives of the Asian Development
Bank (ADB), the United States Aid for International Development (USAID) and the World Bank to
ensure coordination in the application of resources.

SEC. 2. Powers, Functions and Responsibilities . The Task Force shall have the following powers,
functions and responsibilities:

a) To implement the regulatory and supervisory reforms proposed by the ADB under its already
approved technical assistance for the Insurance Commission;

b) To review the financial status of the pre-need industry and develop a strategy for any
necessary restructuring/resolution of this sector, including the transfer of jurisdiction to the
Insurance Commission;

c) To develop the appropriate law (partly covered by ADB technical assistance) and a clearer
definition of the products which should and could be sold by pre-need companies;

d) To further develop enforceable accounting standards for the various components of the
private contractual savings and insurance sector and, in particular, for pre-need companies
and occupational pension plans;

e) To examine the factors inhibiting the development of self-employed persons and multi-
employer group pension arrangements, to afford the working population and small employers
access to efficient, tax-effective retirement savings mechanisms; this study to include an
examination of the potential role of the Life Insurance sector in the pension area, particularly
the right of Life Insurers to manage trust plans; and also a review of the potential role of
Common Trust Funds as retirement savings vehicles;

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f) To review the law covering the ongoing monitoring of occupational pension plans, including
ensuring the rights of members, establishing minimum funding levels, minimum investing
levels, standards of portability and ongoing investment rules; this review to consider also
the implications for the Insurance Commission taking over the responsibility for monitoring
occupational pension plans, possibly in conjunction with the auditing profession; and

g) To support the ongoing tax review process of contractual savings, to be linked to reforms in
the financial sector and financial institutions.

SEC. 3. Time Frame. The Task Force shall submit its recommendations not later than
September 30, 1999.

SEC. 4. Effectivity . This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 6 th day of April, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 91

CREATING A PRESIDENTIAL RETIREMENT INCOME COMMISSION.

WHEREAS, there are at present various pension/retirement funds which contribute to the
functioning of the current Philippine retirement income systems;

WHEREAS, it is necessary to integrate the different pension/retirement fund systems to make
them more equitable, efficient, affordable and financially sound; and

WHEREAS, to pursue the integration there is a need for the creation of a government agency
which will review the operation of the current Philippine retirement income system and make
recommendations for reform and improvement of the pension fund systems.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Creation of a Presidential Retirement Income Commission. There is hereby created
a Presidential Retirement Income Commission composed of not more than fifteen (15) members to be
appointed by the President representing labor, management, private sector and the academe including
representatives from the Department of Finance, the Social Security System, Government Service
Insurance System, and the AFP Retirement and Separation Benefit System, Pag-Ibig, Department of
Labor, Bureau of Internal Revenue, Department of Social Welfare and Development and the voluntary
occupational pension system.

SEC. 2. Functions and Powers. The Commission shall have the following functions and powers:

a) Assess the operation of the current retirement income system to focus on the coverage of
the major components of the system; the level of benefits the system is likely to produce for
different workers retiring in the future; the projected cost of each element of the system and
of the system as a whole; the impact of SSS minimum benefits; the adequacy of the current
safety net programs of assistance to the elderly poor; and adequacy of funding for retirement
and pension systems.

b) Develop a shared vision of the basic scope and structure of the retirement income system,
to include desired targets for income replacement and aggregate cost for the system;
appropriate division of responsibility between government and private institutions and
between mandatory and voluntary programs in the operation of the retirement system; and
the allocation of the system’s costs;

c) Develop a more specific approaches in structuring the SSS and GSIS programs to provide a
first pillar base for a more equitable, efficient, affordable, and incentive-compatible defined-
benefit pension plan;

d) Assess alternative approaches in creating both a funded, second pillar and an improved safety
net program for low income retirees; and

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e) Review options for shifting a portion of the responsibility for assuring a minimum standard
of living to the aged and disabled to programs that are more directly targeted on the needy
and are financed through the government budget.

SEC. 3. Time Frame. The Commission will submit an interim report and a final report. The
interim report will outline the current status of the retirement income system and discuss areas
needing improvement to be issued by September 1, 1999. The final report will detail the Commission’s
recommendation for change to be issued by February 1, 2000.

SEC. 4. Effectivity. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 6 th day of April, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999).
Presidential Management Staff.

[ Executive Order Nos.:

338]. Manila:

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OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
OF THE PHILIPPINES

malacaNang

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 92

PROVIDING FOR THE GENERAL GUIDELINES AND INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS
FOR THE LINGAP PARA SA MAHIHIRAP PROGRAM FUND

WHEREAS, “Kasaganaan para sa lahat, lalo na sa mahihirap” (Prosperity for all, specially for the
poor) is the underlying philosophy of the Estrada Administration’s development agenda, anchored on a
poverty eradication program that emphasizes food security, sustainable development, low-cost housing,
good governance and peace and order;

WHEREAS, the 1999 General Appropriations Act provides for P2.5 Billion under the Lingap Para sa
Mahihirap Program Fund (or Lingap Fund) “to be used exclusively to satisfy the minimum basic needs
of poor communities and disadvantaged sectors” through the following programs:

1. Food, Nutrition and Medical Assistance, P500 Million care of the Department of Health
(DOH);

2. Livelihood Development, P500 Million care of the Cooperative Development Authority
(CDA);

3. Socialized Housing, P500 Million care of the National Housing Authority (NHA);

4. Rural Waterworks System, P300 Million care of the Local Water Utilities Administration
(LWUA);

5. Protective Services for Children and Youth, P300 Million care of the Department of Social
Welfare and Development (DSWD); and,

6. Price Support for Rice and Corn, P400 Million care of the National Food Authority (NFA);

WHEREAS, the Government promotes the principle of decentralized and multi-sectoral policy
formulation and program implementation in the pursuit of national development objectives;
WHEREAS, to ensure that the Lingap Fund is fully utilized to support the poverty eradication program
of Government, there is a need to define the general principles and institutional arrangements for
administering it;

NOW THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law,
do hereby order:

SECTION 1. The National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC), created under Republic Act 8425 as
the coordinating and advisory body for anti-poverty programs, shall exercise policy oversight functions
for the Lingap Fund.

SEC. 2. The administration of the Lingap Para sa Mahihirap Program Fund shall be governed by the
following general principles:

1 . All Implementing Agencies shall target the 100 poorest families per province and city identified
by the Local Government Units (LGUs) and the barangays identified by the National Security
Council (NSC) as priority beneficiaries of their respective program components.

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2. All Implementing Agencies shall build into their project designs the necessary information,
education, communication and social preparation activities to ensure that target beneficiaries
are ready to participate in their programs.

3. The NHA shall focus its projects in highly urbanized areas outside the National Capital
Region, and pro-rate the allocation of its Lingap Fund according to the urban population of
these regions.

4. The LWUA shall tap the Water Districts as partners in implementing its program component
to ensure the technical feasibility and sustainability of rural waterworks projects.

5. The DOH, DSWD, NFA and CDA shall, as far as practicable, converge services in urban and
rural areas where the NFIA and LWUA have targeted their projects, to maximize impact on
the poverty situation.

SEC. 3. A Program Advisory Committee is hereby created to oversee the implementation of the Lingap
Para sa Mahihirap Program, and shall prescribe the following:

1. The criteria for selection or prioritization of program beneficiaries and target sites;

2. General fund allocation and access procedure; and,

3. Mode of participation of Basic Sectors and Local Government Units in program planning,
implementation and monitoring.

The Committee shall be composed of:

1. NAPC Vice-Chairperson for the Government Sector, as Committee Chair;

2. Secretary of Budget and Management, as Co-Chair;

3. NAPC Vice-Chairperson for the Private Sector, as Committee Vice-Chair;

4. Heads of the Lingap Fund Implementing Agencies;

5. National President, League of Provinces;

6. National President, League of Municipalities;

7. National President, League of Cities; and,

8. National President, Liga ng mga Barangay.

The NAPC Secretariat and a Technical Working Group (TWG) composed of representatives of
the above officials shall provide administrative and technical support to the Program Advisory
Committee.

SEC. 4. Every Lingap Fund Implementing Agency shall create a Project Advisory Board for its program,
to determine the following:

1 . Policies and procedures for incorporation in the Implementing Guidelines;

2. Target beneficiaries identified in cooperation with Local Government Units and concerned
legislators;

3. List of project sites and projects to be implemented in each project site;

4. Implementing and Support Agency(ies) for each project;

5. Information, education and communication programs for the social preparation of
beneficiaries, if necessary; and,

6. Project monitoring and evaluation system.

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The Board shall be composed of:

1 . The Head of Agency, as Board Chair;

2. Three (3) NAPC Sectoral Representatives or their alternates, to be designated by the Vice-
Chairperson for the Private Sector;

3. Representatives from the concerned Committees of the Senate or House of Representatives;
and,

4. Other members who may be designated by the Head of Agency.

The Board shall ensure that the appropriate Committees in the Senate or House of Representatives
that are concerned with the Implementing Agency’s program component are consulted and their inputs
considered in the identification of project sites and beneficiaries and the allocation of program funds.
The Board may likewise consult with individual legislators, as the need arises.

SEC. 5. Each Implementing Agency shall designate an Office, Unit or Task Force to assist the Head of
Agency in managing the Lingap Fund. The Office, Unit or Task Force shall report directly to the Head
of Agency concerned, and shall have the following functions:

1 . Enforce the Implementing Guidelines for the program component;

2. Ensure that project proposals submitted for approval satisfy the minimum requirements set
by the Implementing Guidelines;

3. Develop a menu of projects that are within the Agency mandate, but can be adapted to
address the peculiar needs of target beneficiaries and/or localities. To facilitate project
development, such project prototypes may be derived from successful experiences of the
Agency, other national government agencies or corporations, local government units, non-
government organizations, and other sources;

4. Facilitate the release and monitor utilization of program funds, as well as oversee the progress
of projects being implemented under their respective Lingap Fund components;

5. Prepare quarterly feedback reports on the status of the Lingap Fund, to be rendered to the
NAPC on or before the 30th of the month following each quarter.

SEC. 6. Each Implementing Agency is entitled to an administration cost of not more than 5% of the
total allocation of their respective components of the Lingap Fund, net of any reserve impositions,
subject to accounting and auditing rules and regulations. The respective Project Advisory Boards shall
formulate separate guidelines for the utilization of the administration cost.

SEC. 7. The Project Advisory Boards shall recommend Implementing Guidelines for their respective
program components, for approval by the Program Advisory Committee through a Resolution, not
later than 30 April 1999. Upon approval, these Implementing Guidelines shall be published by the
Implementing Agencies in at least one (1) newspaper of national circulation. The DBM shall release
funds to the Implementing Agencies only after the latter have submitted the approved guidelines and
corresponding work and financial plans.

SEC. 8. The Program Advisory Committee and Project Advisory Boards shall undertake a periodic
review of the Implementing Guidelines and agree on any necessary revisions.

SEC. 9. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 12 th day of April, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RAMON B. CARDENAS

Senior Deputy Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 93

AMENDING EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 396, ENTITLED “PROVIDING THE INSTITUTIONAL
FRAMEWORK FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE STANDARDS OF TRAINING,
CERTIFICATION AND WATCHKEEPING FOR SEAFARERS IN THE PHILIPPINES”

WHEREAS, it is the declared policy of the Government to comply with International Maritime
Convention adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to which the Philippines is a
contracting Party;

WHEREAS, the Philippines is obliged to give full and complete effect to the 1978 Standards of
Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) Convention, as amended in 1995,
being a party thereto;

WHEREAS, the Philippines has officially submitted its STCW compliance report to the IMO
Secretary-General last 29 July 1998, in compliance with Article IV of the Convention, Regulation
1/7 of the amendments to the Annex to the Convention and Section A- 1/7 of the STCW Code, in
pursuance to the objective to include the country in the IMO “White List”;

WHEREAS, there is an urgent need to strengthen the institutional framework for the
administration of the 1978 STCW Convention, as amended, in order to effectively implement the
provisions of the Convention, thereby ensuring the compliance by the Filipino seafarers with the above
standards;

WHEREAS, the Maritime Industry Administration (MARINA) is known to all IMO-member
States to be the lead agency for the implementation of the 1978 STCW Convention, as amended, by
virtue of Executive Order (EO) No. 396, Series of 1997, as well as the agency responsible for ensuring
that the Philippines comply with its commitment in the implementation of all IMO maritime safety
conventions and instruments;

WHEREAS, it will be to the best interest of the Philippines, in general, and the Filipino seafarers,
in particular, for MARINA to maintain, consistent with existing laws, its role as lead agency for STCW
Administration;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order the amendment of Executive
Order No. 396, providing for the institutional framework for the administration of the 1978 STCW
Convention, as amended, in the Philippines.

SECTION 1. Administration for STCW . The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) shall
continue to be the lead agency and the Administration for the implementation of the 1978 STCW
Convention, as amended. As such, and subject to existing laws and their implementing rules and
regulations, it shall have the following obligations and responsibilities:

1. Communicate to the IMO and other concerned parties/agencies any supplemental
information necessary, including subsequent amendments to its rules, regulations and/or
procedures relative to the Philippine compliance/implementation of the Convention;

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2. Issue the STCW endorsement as the lead agency and the Administration for the
implementation of the 1978 STCW Convention, as amended, under Executive Order No. 396,
S. of 1997 upon issuance of the certificates of competency by the Professional Regulation
Commission (PRC) under Republic Act No. 8544 and its corresponding endorsement to
MARINA in accordance with the standards of the Convention;

3. Coordinate, monitor, and verify compliance by concerned government agencies with their
Quality Standards System pursuant to Regulation 1/8 of the Convention;

4. Participate in any policy formulation activities by concerned government agencies as they
pertain to the implementation of the Convention;

5. Facilitate requests from other maritime administrations of validation of Philippine compliance
with the Convention in accordance with Regulation 1/10, para. 1.1;

6. Serve as the central repository of information relative to Regulation 1/9 of the Convention;
and

7. Perform such acts as are proper and necessary to effectively implement this Executive Order.

SEC. 2. Chairmanship of the STCW Executive Committee (EXCOM) . The MARINA
Administrator shall be designated Chairman of the EXCOM with the heads of the Commission on
Higher Education, Professional Regulation Commission, Technical Education and Skills Development
Authority and the Department of Health as regular members. The membership may be expanded by
the EXCOM from the government entities mentioned in Section 2 of EO No. 396, to include private
sector associations as may be deemed necessary.

SEC. 3. Repealing Clause . All issuances, rules and regulations, or parts thereof, inconsistent with
the provisions of this Order, are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

SEC. 4. Effectivitv . This Order shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in a
newspaper of general circulation.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 12 th day of APRIL, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety-nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RAMON B. CARDENAS

Senior Deputy Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 94

ESTABLISHING THE POLICY DIRECTION AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK TO
IMPLEMENT LABOR-BASED EQUIPMENT SUPPORTED INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAM

WHEREAS, the primary strategy of the poverty alleviation agenda of the Administration is to
eliminate obstacles that will prevent the poor from becoming productive and competitive members of
the society;

WHEREAS, in line with this strategy, the government shall promote technologies and approaches
as instruments for the economic empowerment and job creation for the poor;

WHEREAS, to mitigate the labor-displacing effects of the economic crisis, there is need to further
strengthen these technologies and approaches, such as those which support labor-based equipment
supported methods in infrastructure programs and projects;

WHEREAS, labor-based equipment supported methods sustain and institutionalize employment
intensive approaches by encouraging optimum use of labor while ensuring cost effectiveness and
quality results in the implementation of infrastructure projects;

WHEREAS, labor-based equipment supported methods also reduce reliance to importation of
construction equipment and machineries;

WHEREAS, Executive Order 336, series of 1988, established labor- based units in the
infrastructure agencies of the government;

WHEREAS, departments and agencies have been encouraged to maximize the use of labor
intensive construction technology;

WHEREAS, there is a need under the premises to strengthen the implementation of labor-based
equipment supported method through the institutionalization of more focused policy direction and
operational framework that will ensure the success of this strategy in alleviating unemployment.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue of
the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Adoption of the Policy Direction for Labor-Based Equipment Supported (LB-ES)
Infrastructure Program. It shall be the policy of the government to utilize LB-ES method in
infrastructure programs and projects, including foreign-funded projects as the technology of first
choice, whenever it is possible and feasible, to alleviate underemployment and unemployment, promote
self-reliance and conserve foreign exchange through reduced importation of construction equipment
and fuel.

To attain the desired objectives and ensure efficiency in the implementation of LB-ES
Infrastructure Program, the following policy guidelines shall be adopted:

1.1 The LB-ES Infrastructure Program shall employ a technology in which labor, supported by
light equipment, is used as a cost effective method of providing or maintaining infrastructure
to a specific standard.

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1.2 The program shall place a premium in the recruitment and placement of displaced workers
in LB-ES projects and include training programs for sustained upgrading of the skills and
competencies of these workers.

1.3 For projects where LB-ES is found appropriate, there must be a dramatic shift in favor of the
labor based component.

SEC. 2. Creation of LB-ES Infrastructure Program Committee. There is hereby created an LB-ES
Infrastructure Program Committee (hereinafter referred to as the “Committee”) to oversee and ensure
the efficient utilization of LB-ES method in infrastructure programs and projects of government.

2.1 Composition. The Committee shall be composed of the Secretary of Public Works and
Elighways as Chair, the Secretary of Labor and Employment as Co-Chair, and the following
as members:

i. Lead Convenor, National Anti-Poverty Commission

ii. Undersecretary, Department of Interior and Local Government

iii. Undersecretary, Department of Transportation and Communication

iv. Undersecretary, Department of Energy

v. Undersecretary, Department of Education, Culture and Sports

vi. Undersecretary, Department of Agriculture

vii. Undersecretary, Department of Agrarian Reform

viii. Undersecretary, Department of Environment and Natural Resources

ix. Undersecretary, Department of Finance

x. Undersecretary, Department of Budget and Management

xi. Deputy Director-General, National Economic Development Authority

xii. Chairperson, HUDCC

xiii. President, League of Provinces

xiv. President, League of Municipalities

xv. President, League of Cities

xvi. President, Liga ng mga Barangay

xvii. Five (5) representatives from the private sector representing contractors, employers,
engineering consultants, academe and labor groups to be appointed by the President
from among the nominees of the Committee.

The Committee may call on other agencies as may be needed.

2.2 Functions. The Committee shall undertake the following functions and responsibilities:

a. Formulate a National Program on LB-ES to provide the framework that will guide
the implementation of LB-ES methods and technology at the national and local levels,
including the specific guidelines to implement the various components of the program
thereof;

b. Coordinate and monitor all programs/activities related to the implementation of LB-ES;

c. Resolve policy and operational issues and problems which may arise relative to the
implementation of the program, in close coordination with concerned agencies/entities;

d. Determine training and technical assistance requirement for both the public and private
sector involvement in this program;

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e. Submit quarterly reports to the President on the status of the implementation of the
National Program, including issues and attendant recommendations thereon;and

f. Perform other functions that may be directed by the President.

2.3 Secretariat. Technical and administrative secretariat support services to the Committee shall
be provided jointly by DPWH and DOLE.

SEC. 3. Funding. The funds necessary for the initial implementation of the program, including
fund sources thereof, shall be determined by the Committee. Thereafter, funding requirements
necessary for the continued implementation of the program shall be included in the annual National
Expenditures Program.

SEC. 4. Repealing Clause. This Order amends all issuances, rules and regulations or any part
thereof which are inconsistent with the provisions of this Order.

SEC. 5. Effectivitv . This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

Done in the City of Manila, this 12 th day of APRIL, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety-nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 95

ENSURING EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROCESSES AND STRUCTURAL ARRANGEMENTS
FOR BUDGETING AND MANAGEMENT FUNCTIONS

WHEREAS, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) is the primary government
agency mandated to prepare and implement the national budget and pursue fiscal and management
reforms in the operation of the bureaucracy;

WHEREAS, instituting improvements in public expenditure management has been a priority
concern of the Department, which could be achieved, among others, by putting in place a three-year
plan which could contain agency program priorities and implementation strategies, devolving to
agency heads the authority to utilize budget, and to operate a performance evaluation and monitoring
system among agencies;

WHEREAS, the Department is gearing towards a fully computerized budgeting system through
the Budget Execution and Accountability Tracking (B.E.A.T.) System that will computerize the budget
execution and accountability phases of the budget process and streamline budget release procedures to
enable the prompt provision of funds to agencies;

WHEREAS, in view of these budgetary innovations, a refocusing in the functions of the different
organizational units, as well as the operational strategies in the Department, should be effected to
make its organizational setup and operational processes more responsive to the requirements of the
improvements in public expenditure management;

WHEREAS, under Section 77 of the General Provisions of Republic Act No. 8745 (FY 1999
General Appropriations Act), the President may direct changes in the organization and key positions in
any department, bureau or agency; and

WHEREAS, Section 79 of the General Provisions of RA 8745, directs heads of departments,
bureaus and agencies to scale down, phase out or abolish activities no longer essential in the delivery
of public services, and provides that savings generated from the abolition, phasing out or scaling down
of unnecessary activities may be used by the departments, bureaus and agencies concerned for the
augmentation of their respective programs, projects and activities.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Functional Focus. In the light of the efforts to shift public expenditure management
from cost-based to performance-based, the Department of Budget and Management shall accordingly,
effect policy, organizational, functional and operational refocusing strategies that will address the
following priority concerns:

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a. Adoption of a medium-term expenditure framework that would consider a level of
expenditures not only for the budget year but for subsequent years, as well, and would enable
a more predictable planning environment for agencies;

b. Adoption of measures to enhance efficiency in allowing and utilizing resources through,
among others, the grant of more authority and flexibility to agencies in budget utilization and
provision of performance incentives; and

c. Development and implementation of a performance monitoring and evaluation system that
would be related to resource allocation.

SECTION 2. Organizational and Operational Adjustments in the DBM. To ensure that the
above priority concerns will be effectively undertaken, the Secretary of the Department of Budget
and Management shall review its existing operational processes, systems and setup, and determine
appropriate mechanisms and strategies, subject to existing organizational and staffing guidelines and
standards. In compliance with these requirements, the following considerations should be taken:

1. Ensuring the conduct of policy researches/studies and standard-setting on budgeting and
management;

2. Integration of related/homogeneous activities in the Department along three major functional
categories: policy and management services, budget operations, and internal administrative
and support services;

3. Strengthening of the functions of the budget operation units from those on fund releasing/
realignment to agency performance assessment and monitoring of budget utilization;

4. Delegation of more responsibilities to the Regional Offices; and

5. Strengthening of the coordinative/integrative and monitoring activities between and among
the units in the Central Office and the Regional Offices.

As part of the DBM’s continuing efforts to institute budgeting and management reforms, the
Secretary of Budget and Management is further authorized to make operational/structural adjustments
in the Department, as necessary, to achieve effectiveness and efficiency in accomplishing its mandates.

SECTION 3. Redeployment of Personnel. As necessary, the existing personnel of the DBM shall
be redeployed in accordance with the requirements of the revised organization structure and staffing
pattern and civil service rules and regulations. Such redeployment shall not result in the diminution in
rank and compensation of affected personnel.

SECTION 4. Funding. The financial resources required to implement the revised staffing pattern
shall be taken from funds available in the DBM, provided that the necessary organizational and staffing
modifications shall not entail additional funds for Personal Services.

Section 5. Effectivity. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 28 th day of APRIL, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety-nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 96

APPROVING AND DIRECTING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PROGRAM
“ENCOURAGING RENEWED ASSISTANCE FROM THE PRIVATE SECTOR FOR THE
UNSETTLED VICTIMS OF MT. PINATUBO UNTIL THE YEAR 2000” OR ERAPS 2000

WHEREAS, the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo had rendered homeless thousands of families in Central
Luzon, particularly in the provinces of Pampanga, Tarlac and Zambales;

WHEREAS, RA 7637 (s. of 1992) mandated the Mt. Pinatubo Commission (MPC) to assist the
victims in the communities damaged or adversely affected by the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo and its after
effects;

WHEREAS, Proc. No. 1201 (s. of 1998) extended the term of MPC until December 31, 2000,
to undertake, among others, the provision of resettlement assistance to the remaining lahar and flood
victims in evacuation centers;

WHEREAS, Sec. 7 (F) of RA No. 7637 allows the MPC to apply for, receive and accept donations
of funds, equipment, materials and services for the development of Mt. Pinatubo-affected areas;

WHEREAS, the MPC has provided a total of 47,000 housing units to the victims in 23
resettlement sites located in Zambales, Pampanga and Tarlac;

WHEREAS, there are 5,288 family-victims who are still staying in various evacuation centers and
off-site shelters; and,

WHEREAS, there is need to establish a program which will address the housing needs of the
remaining unsettled victims.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH E. ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the Philippines, by
virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

Section 1. Implementation of the Program “Encouraging Renewed Assistance From The
Private Sector For The Unsettled Victims Of Mt. Pinatubo Until The Year 2000” . The “Encouraging
Renewed Assistance From The Private Sector For The Unsettled Victims Of Mt. Pinatubo Until
The Year 2000” Program (herein after referred to as “the program”) is hereby approved for
implementation. The program shall generate support from the private sector to address the housing
needs of the unsettled victims of Mt. Pinatubo eruption. It will also tap private corporations and
major civic organizations to sponsor the construction of housing units in areas pre-developed by
MPC.

Sec. 2. Lead Implementing Agency. The MPC shall be the lead agency in the implementation of
the program. It shall serve as the program secretariat and provide the necessary administrative and
technical support thereto.

Sec. 3. Creation of a Multi-Sectoral Committee for ERAPS 2000 . A Multi-Sectoral Committee
for ERAPS 2000 is hereby created to oversee the implementation of the program. Specifically, it shall
undertake the following:

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a. Formulate strategies and guidelines that will encourage, solicit and accept contributions from the
private sector for the housing needs of the remaining 5,288 family-victims;

b. Monitor the solicitation and campaign activities; and,

c. Submit periodic report to the President on the status of the implementation of the program.

Sec. 4. Committee Composition . The Committee shall be composed of the following:

a. Chairman, Mount Pinatubo Commission Chairman

b. Chairman, Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) Member

General Manager, National Housing Authority (NHA) Member

d. President, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Member

e. President, Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Member

f. National President, Rotary Club of the Philippines Member

g. National President, Lions Club of the Philippines - Member

h. National President, Philippine Jaycees Member

i. National President, Kiwanis International (Philippine Chapter) Member

Sec. 5. Grant of Tax Incentives . Donations made to the program are allowed as a tax deductible
item from the gross income of the donor, subject to the provisions of Sec. 34 of RA 8424 or the Tax
Reform Act of 1997.

The tax privilege shall be applicable only for the taxable year the donation was made. Acceptance
of the donation shall only be undertaken until December 2000.

Sec. 6. Funding . The funds necessary for the implementation of the program shall be charged
against the MPC.

Sec. 7. Implementing Rules and Regulations . The Chairman of the MPC, after consultation with
concerned agencies of government, shall formulate and prepare the necessary rules and regulations to
implement the provisions of this Order.

Sec. 8. Effectivitv . This Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE, in the City of Manila this 29 th day of April, in the year of our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999).
Presidential Management Staff.

[ Executive Order Nos.:

- 338]. Manila:

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 97

AMENDING EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 49, S. 1998 FURTHER EXPANDING THE FUNCTIONS
OF THE TRIPARTITE INDUSTRIAL PEACE COUNCIL

WHEREAS, the Tripartite Industrial Peace Council (TIPC) was established through Executive
Order (EO) No. 403 (s. 1990), as amended by EO 25 (s. 1992), EO 383 (s. 1996) and EO 49 (s. 1998)
to promote meaningful tripartite consultation among the labor, employers and government sectors in
the formulation and implementation of labor policies;

WHEREAS, during the 21 January 1999 High Level Conference on Labor and Employment, after
due sectoral and regional consultations, the participants adopted the Medium Term Comprehensive
Employment Plan (1999-2004) which identifies the national, sectoral and regional/local employment
targets, policies, priorities and strategies;

WHEREAS, a truly representative and authoritative oversight mechanism is essential to
ensure effective coordination and monitoring of efforts of both the public and private sectors to the
commitments under the Comprehensive Employment Plan (CEP) thereby enhancing the prospects of
attaining the employment goals;

WHEREAS, the TIPC, a multi-sectoral body composed of representatives from government,
workers, employers and their organizations, is deemed an effective mechanism to ensure effective
coordination and monitoring of efforts to implement both public and private sector commitments
under the Comprehensive Employment Plan (CEP); and,

WHEREAS, there is need to amend EO 49 to expand the functions of the TIPC thereof for the
effective implementation of the CEP.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Expansion of the Functions of the Tripartite Industrial Peace Council. The functions
of the TIPC are hereby expanded to include overseeing the implementation of the Medium Term
Comprehensive Employment Plan (CEP). Relative thereto, it shall undertake the following:

a. Monitor the observance of policy guidelines and implementation of the action plans
committed by those concerned agencies at the national and regional/local levels;

b. Facilitate the securing of the necessary budget, technical and human resources support for the
effective implementation of the CEP;

c. Identify major problems in the implementation of the action plans and their causes and
institute or recommend necessary corrective measures to the agency concerned;

d. Review and recommend policies, strategies and programs for improving employment
generation, facilitation, enhancement and preservation;

e. Convene quarterly assessment meetings, prepare the Annual Philippine Employment Report,
update the CEP annually and organize a comprehensive review of the plan every three years;

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f. Prepare and implement a communication plan to generate support for the CEP from
Congress, other offices of the Executive Branch, and the public;

g. Submit quarterly reports to the President on the status of the implementation of the programs
including issues and attendant recommendations thereon as well as the annual updates on the
CEP; and,

h. Perform such other functions as the President may direct.

The Regional Tripartite Industrial Peace Councils (RTIPCs), chaired by the DOLE Regional
Directors, shall oversee the implementation of the Regional Employment Plan of their respective
regions, in coordination with the Regional Development Councils (RDCs).

Sec. 2. Coordination with the Economic Mobilization Group. The TIPC shall work within the
framework of the Economic Mobilization Group (EMG), created by virtue of AO No. 376 (s. 1998),
and shall serve as one of its sub-sectors.

Sec. 3 Repealing Clause . This Order amends all issuances, rules and regulations or any part
thereof which are inconsistent with the provisions of this Order.

Sec. 4. Effectivitv . This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 1 st day of May, in the year of Our Lord nineteen hundred and
ninety-nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 98

DIRECTING ALL GOVERNMENT AGENCIES, INSTRUMENTALITIES, LOCAL GOVERNMENT
UMTS, AND GOVERNMENT-OWNED AND/OR CONTROLLED CORPORATIONS (GOCCs)
TO INCLUDE THE TAXPAYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (TIN) AS PART OF THE
ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS IN ALL APPLICATIONS FOR A GOVERNMENT PERMIT,
LICENSE, CLEARANCE, OFFICIAL PAPER OR DOCUMENT

WHEREAS, for tax purposes, a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) is prescribed under Section
236 (J) of the National Internal Revenue Code for all taxpayers and it is required to be indicated in
certain documents;

WHEREAS, the TIN is a vital information for tracing a person’s taxable transactions under a
computerized system of tax administration;

WHEREAS, revenue collection needs to be enhanced to finance the country’s growing
infrastructure requirements and support the poverty alleviation projects of the government;

WHEREAS, tax monitoring, leading to increased compliance with tax laws, will be greatly
improved if such Taxpayer’s Identification Number will be made a mandatory requirement in
all applications for any government permit, license, clearance, official paper or document by the
transacting public;

WHEREAS, the uniform observance by all government agencies of this requirement is necessary
to effectively carry out the purposes of this Order.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic Philippines,
do hereby order that:

SECTION 1 . All government agencies and instrumentalities, including Government-Owned and /
or Controlled Corporations, and all Local Government Units, are hereby directed to incorporate the
Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) in all forms, permits, licenses, clearances, official papers and
documents which they issue to persons transacting business with them, be they natural or judicial.

SECTION 2. The said agencies, GOCCs, and LGUs shall develop procedures such that permits,
licenses and clearances, whenever possible and where applicable, shall not be issued to persons or
entities without a duly issued TIN. Likewise, procedures shall be developed such that persons with
TIN or valid TIN cards shall enjoy priority or preferential action in his transactions with government
offices.

SECTION 3. The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) shall assign a permanent TIN and within
two (2) years from the issuance of this Order, supply permanent TIN cards to all taxpayers. A valid
TIN card produced by a person shall be sufficient for identification purposes in all this official dealings
with the government. Provided, however, that for purposes of this Order, it shall be sufficient for a
person still without TIN or TIN card to present his application for registration thereof (BIR Form
1901/1902/1903) duly stamped by the BIR.

SECTION 4. In all official transactions with the public, the TIN shall serve as the common
secondary reference index of all government agencies. For computerized agencies, the TIN shall be

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part of the data to be encoded in their official records, which shall be transmitted electronically to the
revenue authorities as may be required by law or regulations.

SECTION 5. Any person who fails to comply with the requirements of this Executive Order,
including the parties involved in transactions where a TIN is prescribed, and the government
functionary involved in the monitoring or regulating of these transactions, shall be subject to all the
appropriate sanctions provided for in the National Internal Revenue Code and other pertinent laws
and regulations.

SECTION 6. Where necessary or desirable, the Secretary of Finance, upon the recommendation
of the Commissioner of Internal Revenue, shall promulgate rules and regulations for the effective
implementation of this Executive Order. Provided, however, that the absence of such regulations shall
not exempt any government agency from complying with this Order.

SECTION 7. The Secretary of the Department of Budget and Management shall give preferential
budgetary support to the Bureau of Internal Revenue to enable it to accomplish its objective of
supplying permanent TIN cards to all taxpayers.

SECTION 8. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 28 th day of April 1999, in the year of our Lord nineteen
hundred and ninety nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 99

ESTABLISHING THE PRESIDENTIAL TASK FORCE ON THE 20/20 INITIATIVE

WHEREAS, the 1995 World Summit for Social Development endorsed the 20/20 Initiative for
universal access to basic social services, calling on developed and developing countries to agree on a
mutual commitment to allocate, on average, twenty percent (20%) of Official Development Assistance
and twenty percent (20%) of the national budgets, respectively, to basic social programs;

WHEREAS, the Philippine Constitution mandates that the goal of the national economy is the
more equitable distribution of opportunities, income and wealth;

WHEREAS, the Philippine Government is committed to the attainment of economic development,
social equity and social justice.

WHEREAS, the Philippine Government has considered poverty eradication, people empowerment
and the provision of basic social services as essential components of its agenda for governance;

WHEREAS, this 20/20 initiative was reviewed and discussed at a special follow-up conference in
Hanoi, Vietnam on 27-29 October 1998, which underlined that the goal of universal access to basic
social services is based on ethical, legal and economic grounds; and reiterated the indicative allocation
of 20/20 in order to close the gap between current spending and the minimum level required to reach
universality;

WHEREAS, the more efficient and effective delivery of basic social services is consistent with the
Philippine Government’s agenda for poverty eradication and people empowerment;

WHEREAS, the social development objectives of the 1995 World Summit for Social Development
(in the 20/20 initiative) parallel that of the Philippine Government’s in the sense that both aim at
universal and comprehensive access to basic social services, particularly health and education;

WHEREAS, there is a need to systematically mobilize foreign relations to meet national needs
such as peace, development and human dignity.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Presidential Task Force on the 20/20 Initiative. A Presidential Task Force on the
20/20 Initiative (hereinafter referred to as the “Task Force”) is hereby established under the Office of
the President, to be composed as follows:

Secretary of Agrarian Reform

- Chairman

Secretary of Foreign Affairs

- Co-Chair

Secretary of Social Welfare and Development

Member

Secretary of Health

Member

Secretary of Education, Culture and Sports

Member

Director-General National Economic and Development Authority

Member

Undersecretary of Interior and Local Government

Member

Secretary of Finance

Member

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i. Secretary of Labor and Employment - Member

j. Secretary-General, National Anti-Poverty Commission - Member

k. President, Development Academy of the Philippines - Member

The Chairmen and the members may designate their respective representatives to the Task Force.

SEC. 2. Functions of the Task Force. The Task Force shall be a policy advisory body for the
President and facilitator of coordinated programs and resource mobilization efforts for the 20/20
Initiative and shall meet as and when necessary. The Task Force shall exercise the following functions
and responsibilities:

a. To initiate advocacy programs to promote understanding and appreciation of the initiative in
helping meet the goals thereof;

b. To coordinate efforts among various government agencies and local government units
towards fulfillment of the 20/20 initiative on basic social services;

c. To assist in the formulation of rules and policy on basic social services, and a Comprehensive
Agenda of Action for 20/20 in the 21 st Century;

d. To provide technical support to the President in the area of basic social services vis-a-vis the
20/20 initiative;

e. To act as a focal point for harmonizing and strengthening the work of relevant agencies in
the implementation of their respective programs and strategies for the delivery of basic social
services, vis-a-vis the 20/20 initiative;

f. To call on and coordinate with any department, bureau or office of the Government,
including government-owned and controlled corporations, to render such assistance needed
in the discharge of its functions; and

g. To coordinate with the Social Development Committee, particularly the Multi-Sectoral
Committee on International Human Development Commitments, which is mandated to
coordinate the monitoring, review and evaluation of the Philippine’s compliance with
international human development commitments.

SEC. 3. Report to the President. The Task Force shall submit a comprehensive report to the
President by the 30th day following the close of every calendar year, or whenever required to do so by
the President.

SEC. 4. Role of Civil Society. The Task Force shall endeavor to perform its functions and work
with the basic sectors of government, private business and civil society, and to develop therewith a
dynamic and workable partnership based on the principle of participation, mutual interests and a
common commitment to the alleviation of poverty.

SEC. 5. Secretariat. The Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) shall serve as the
Secretariat of the Task Force. The DAP President shall serve as the Executive Director of the Secretariat.
He shall be assisted by a Deputy Director/Coordinator for the detailed, day to day operations of the
Secretariat.

The Secretariat shall be responsible for convening and preparing for the meetings of the Task
Force.

The Secretariat shall have such number of personnel as may be necessary for the efficient and
effective performance of its functions. All agencies represented in the Task Force may detail or assign
an employee or employees to form the Secretariat on secondment. The Task Force may provide the
members of the Secretariat with such honoraria or allowances as may be allowed by law and at rates

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consistent with those prescribed pursuant to the Unified Compensation and Position Classification
System under RA No. 6758.

The DAP shall provide the necessary space and facilities for the Headquarters of the Secretariat.

SEC. 6. Funding. Subject to budgetary rules and regulations, an amount of THREE MILLION
PESOS (P3, 000, 000. 00) shall be sourced from the Office of the President as initial operating expenses
of the Task Force for 1999. Appropriations for the succeeding years shall be included in the General
Appropriations Act. Counterpart funding and technical assistance, however, shall also be sourced from
ODA donors including grants from the UN system and other international organizations.

SEC. 7. Repealing Clause . All orders and issuances or any part thereof which are inconsistent
with the provisions of this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

SEC. 8. Effectivitv. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

Done in the City of Manila, this 06 th day of MAY, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred and
ninety nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 100

STRENGTHENING THE OPERATIONAL, ADMINISTRATIVE AND INFORMATION SUPPORT
SYSTEM OF THE PHILIPPINE CENTER ON TRANSNATIONAL CRIME

WHEREAS, pursuant to Executive Order No. 62 dated 15 January 1999, the Philippine Center
on Transnational Crime (PCTC) has been created to formulate and implement a concerted program
of action of all law enforcement, intelligence and other agencies for the prevention and control of
transnational crime;

WHEREAS, in implementing Executive Order No. 246 dated 18 May 1995, the National Action
Committee on Anti-Hijacking and Anti-Terrorism (NACAHT) has created and activated the Loop
Center whose primary mission is to assist and support NACAHT in integrating and orchestrating the
efforts of all law enforcement agencies against international and domestic terrorism;

WHEREAS, pursuant to the Office of the President (OP) Memorandum Order No. 92
dated 15 February 1993, the INTERPOL National Central Bureau for the Philippines (INTERPOL
NCB-Manila) has been reconstituted to serve as the national liaison office and main coordinating body
for international police cooperation against transnational crime;

WHEREAS, positions for Police Attaches under the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Political
Attaches/Counsellors for Security Matters under the Department of the Interior and Local Government
(DILG) have been authorized under existing laws and regulations to be established in selected
Philippine Diplomatic Missions abroad with the primary mission of, among others, monitoring and
collecting information of strategic value to the national interest and national security of the Philippines,
particularly on transnational crime;

WHEREAS, participation in international training activities, seminars and conferences pertaining
to or having to do with transnational crime needs to be streamlined and systematized in order to
optimize the benefits to be derived therefrom;

WHEREAS, there is a compelling need to strengthen the operational, administrative and
information support system of the PCTC in order that the Center can successfully and effectively carry
out its mission and functions.

NOW THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH E. ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the Philippines, by
virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

Section 1. The following agencies/offices/instrumentalities are hereby placed under the general

supervision and control of the PCTC:

a. Loop Center of the NACAHT;

b. INTERPOL NCB-Manila;

c. Police Attaches of the PNP; and

d. Political Attaches/Counsellors for Security Matters of the DILG.

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Section 2. The participation of government personnel in international training activities,
seminars and conferences pertaining to or having to do with transnational crime shall have the
proper indorsement by the PCTC.

Section 3. The Secretary of the Interior and Tocal Government, who is the concurrent
Chairman of the National Police Commission, shall issue detailed guidelines to implement this
Order.

Section 4. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 07 th day of MAY, in the year of our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). / Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 101

PROVIDING FOR THE IMMEDIATE ORGANIZATION AND OPERATIONALIZATION
OF THE INTERIM INTERNAL AFFAIRS SERVICE (IAS) OF
THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE

WHEREAS, as a vital part of its framework of governance, the Estrada Administration has vowed
to eradicate of all forms of misconduct in public service;

WHEREAS, Republic Act No. 8551, otherwise known as the Philippine National Police (PNP)
Reform and Reorganization Act of 1998, has established the Internal Affairs Service as the mandated
institutional watchdog agency for the PNP organization;

WHEREAS, it is imperative that the government immediately provide the PNP with a highly
professional and competent office within the PNP that shall be independent, impartial and objective
and that shall have as its primary responsibility the drive against malfeasance in the police service;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, by virtue of the powers vested in me by
the Constitution as President of the Philippines, do hereby order and direct the following:

Section 1. Creation of an Interim Internal Affairs Service. An Interim Internal Affairs Service
(IAS) of the Philippine National Police (PNP) is hereby established. Said interim IAS shall perform
the functions of the IAS as established under Title V, Sections 39 - 51 under Republic Act No. 8551,
otherwise known as the PNP Reform and Reorganization Act of 1998, pending the approval of the
latter’s formal organization by the Congress pursuant to Section 13 thereof.

Section 2. Status. The interim IAS shall be the lead agency for the PNP organization in the
campaign against all forms of misconduct in the police service. It shall be accorded the status of an
independent, impartial and objective investigative and adjudicatory agency within the PNP. Aside from
efficiently and effectively performing the powers and functions of the IAS as enumerated under the
R.A. 8551, it shall also formulate, develop and maintain the following programs:

a. A career development and management program for both uniformed and non-uniformed
personnel;

b. A retirement and separation benefit program;

c. A separate financial and budgetary management program;

d. A separate logistics management and services program; and

e. Other programs as may be needed, subject to approval of the Secretary of the Interior and
Local Government.

Section 3. Interim Organizational Structure. Pending promulgation of a rationalized staffing
pattern by the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) as provided under Sec. 40, R.A. 8551,
the interim IAS organization shall be headed by an interim IAS Inspector General who shall be
appointed by the President of the Republic of the Philippines. The interim IAS shall likewise have an

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organizational structure and staffing pattern as depicted under Annexes A and B of this Executive
Order. The interim IAS Inspector General is authorized to extend provisional appointments to positions
in this interim set-up as he may deem necessary. After such staffing pattern shall have been established,
the Inspector General shall forthwith issue regular appointments to those who will qualify from within
or without the PNP in accordance with the qualification standards set for IAS personnel.

Section 4. Benefits. In addition to the regular benefits granted under existing laws, rules and
regulations, IAS personnel, whether uniformed or non-uniformed, shall be entitled to all benefits
granted under Presidential Decree No. 448.

Section 5. Funding Requirements. Sources for the initial funding requirements to carry out
the provisions of this Executive Order shall be taken from available CY 1999 funds not otherwise
previously allocated to be recommended by the Department of the Budget and Management (DBM).
For the succeeding years, the amount required for the IAS’s purposes shall be incorporated in the
annual General Appropriations Act.

Section 6. Administration. The Secretary of Interior and Local Government, in coordination with
the Secretary of Budget and Management, shall be responsible for the implementation of this Executive
Order and shall be authorized to promulgate, from time to time, such complementary directives and
issuances as may be deemed necessary.

Section 7. Effectivity. This Executive Order takes effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 07 th day of May, Hundred and Ninety Nine.

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 102

REDIRECTING THE FUNCTIONS AND OPERATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

WHEREAS, the Department of Health, hereafter referred to as DOH, has been transformed from
being the sole provider of health services, to being a provider of specific health services and technical
assistance provider for health, as a result of the devolution of basic services to local government units;

WHEREAS, the DOH seeks to serve as the national technical authority on health, one that will
ensure the highest achievable standards of quality health care, health promotion and health protection,
from which local governments units, non-government organizations, other private organizations and
individual members of civil society will anchor their health programs and strategies;

WHEREAS, to effectively fulfill its refocused mandate, the DOH is required to undergo changes
in roles, functions, organizational processes, corporate values, skills technology and structures;

WHEREAS, Section 20, Chapter 7, Title I, Book III of Executive Order No. 292 series of 1987,
otherwise known as the Administrative Code of 1987, empowers the President of the Philippines to
exercise such powers and functions as are vested in him under the law;

WHEREAS, Section 78 of the General Provisions of RA 8522, otherwise known as the General
Appropriations Act of 1998, empowers the President to direct changes in organization and key
positions of any department, bureau or agency;

WHEREAS, Section 80 of the same General Provisions directs heads of departments, bureaus
and agencies to scale down, phase out or abolish activities no longer essential in the delivery of health
services;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order the following:

SECTION 1. Mandate . Consistent with the provisions of the Administrative Code of 1987 and
RA 7160 (the Local Government Code), the DOH is hereby mandated to provide assistance to local
government units (LGUs), people’s organization (PO) and other members of civic society in effectively
implementing programs, projects and services that will:

a) promote the health and well-being of every Filipino;

b) prevent and control diseases among populations at risks;

c) protect individuals, families and communities exposed to hazards and risks that could affect
their health; and

d) treat, manage and rehabilitate individuals affected by disease and disability.

SEC. 2. Roles . To fulfill its responsibilities under this mandate, the DOH shall serve as the:

a) lead agency in articulating national objectives for health to guide the development of local
health systems, programs and services;

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b) direct service provider for specific programs that affect large segments of the population,
such as tuberculosis, malaria, schistosomiasis, HIV-AIDS and other emerging infections, and
micronutrient deficiencies;

c) lead agency in health emergency response services, including referral and networking systems
for trauma, injuries and catastrophic events;

d) technical authority in disease control and prevention;

e) lead agency in ensuring equity, access and quality of health care services through policy
formulation, standards development and regulations;

f) technical oversight agency in charge of monitoring and evaluating the implementation of
health programs, projects, research, training and services;

g) administrator of selected health facilities at sub-national levels that act as referral centers for
local health systems i.e. tertiary and special hospitals, reference laboratories, training centers,
centers for health promotion; centers for disease control and prevention, regulatory offices
among others;

h) innovator of new strategies for responding to emerging health needs;

i) advocate for health promotion and healthy life styles for the general population;

j) capacity- builder of local government units, the private sector, non-governmental organizations,
people’s organizations, national government agencies in implementing health programs and
services through technical collaborations, logistical support, provision of grants and allocation
and other partnership mechanisms;

k) lead agency in health and medical research;

l) facilitator of the development of health industrial complex in partnership with the private
sector to ensure self-sufficiency in the production of biologicals, vaccines and drugs and
medicines;

m) lead agency in health emergency preparedness and response;

n) protector of standards of excellence in the training and education of health care providers at
all levels of the health care system; and

o) implementor of the National Health Insurance Law; providing administrative and technical
leadership in health care financing.

SEC. 3. Powers and Functions . To accomplish its mandate and roles the Department shall:

a) Formulate national policies and standards for health;

b) Prevent and control leading causes of health and disability;

c) Develop disease surveillance and health information systems;

d) Maintain national health facilities and hospitals with modern and advanced capabilities to
support local services;

e) Promote health and well-being through public information and to provide the public with
timely and relevant information on health risks and hazards;

f) Develop and implement strategies to achieve appropriate expenditure patterns in health as
recommended by international agencies;

g) Development of sub-national centers and facilities for health promotion, disease control and
prevention, standards, regulations and technical assistance;

h) Promote and maintain international linkages for technical collaboration;

i) Create the environment for development of a health industrial complex;

j) Assume leadership in health in times of emergencies, calamities and disasters; system fails;

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k) Ensure quality of training and health human resource development at all levels of the health
care system;

l) Oversee financing of the health sector and ensure equity and accessibility to health services;
and

m) Articulate the national health research agenda and ensure the provision of sufficient resources
and logistics to attain excellence in evidenced-based interventions for health.

SEC. 4. Preparation of a Rationalization and Streamlining Plan . In view of the functional and
operational redirection in the DOH, and to effect efficiency and effectiveness in its activities, the
Department shall prepare a Rationalization and Streamlining Plan (RSP) which shall be the basis of the
intended changes. The RSP Plan shall contain the following:

a) the specific shift in policy directions, functions, programs and activities/strategies;

b) the structural and organizational shift, stating the specific functions and activities by
organizational unit and the relationship of each units;

c) the staffing shift, highlighting and itemizing the existing filled and unfilled positions; and

d) the resource allocation shift, specifying the effects of the streamlined set-up on the agency
budgetary allocation and indicating where possible, savings have been generated.

The RSP shall be submitted to the Department of Budget and Management for approval before
the corresponding shifts shall be affected by the DOH Secretary.

SEC. 5. Redeployment of Personnel . The redeployment of officials and other personnel on
the basis of the approved RSP shall not result in diminution in rank and compensation of existing
personnel. It shall take into account all pertinent Civil Service laws and rules.

SEC. 6. Funding . The financial resources needed to implement the Rationalization and
Streamlining Plan shall be taken from funds available in the DOH, provided that the total requirements
for the implementation of the revised staffing pattern shall not exceed available funds for Personnel
Services.

SEC. 7. Separation Benefits . Personnel who opt to be separated from the service as a consequence
of the implementation of this Executive Order shall be entitled to the benefits under existing laws. In
the case of those who are not covered by existing laws, they shall be entitled to separation benefits
equivalent to one month basic salary for every year of service or proportionate share thereof in
addition to the terminal fee benefits to which he/she is entitled under existing laws.

SEC. 8. Implementing Authority . Following the approved RSP, the DOH Secretary, in addition to
his authority to implement the RSP is hereby authorized to determine the type of agencies and facilities
necessary to carry out the Department’s mandate and roles, including the pilot testing of programs and
such-pre corporization of hospitals following strictly the principles of efficiency and effectiveness.

SEC. 9. Effectivity . This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 24th day of May, Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred and Ninety-Nine.

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 103

ESTABLISHING THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENTIAL ADVISER ON FOOD SECURITY
UNDER THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT

WHEREAS, with the onset of globalization and the implementation of the General Agreement
on Tariffs and Trade-World Trade Order (GATT- WTO), the Philippine agriculture and fishery sectors
have to be strengthened through modernization, greater participation of farmers and fisherfolk, food
security and self-sufficiency, private sector participation and people empowerment;

WHEREAS, the State has declared agriculture as the centerpiece of development of the current
administration to uplift the plight of the masses in the rural areas;

WHEREAS, the government has launched agricultural development programs, with the primary
goal of attaining national food security at all times;

WHEREAS, there is a need for a coordinating body that shall oversee, unify and integrate the
administration and implementation of the government’s food security programs; and

WHEREAS, under Sec. 31, Title III, Book III of Administrative Code of 1987, the President has a
continuing authority to reorganize his Office.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by the Constitution, do hereby establish the Office of
the Presidential Adviser on Food Security (OPAFS) under the Office of the President, and providing the
necessary funds and its Secretariat.

SECTION 1. Functions of the OPAFS .

The OPAFS shall have the following functions:

a) Coordinate and evaluate the programs, projects, activities and accomplishments of all
government agencies responsible in the implementation of the different aspects of food
security;

b) Oversee, monitor and recommend policies, programs and other measures related to food
security for their effective formulation and implementation;

c) Serve as the Secretariat of the National Council on Food Security. The Presidential Adviser on
Food Security shall serve as Co-Chairman of the Council;

d) Manage the Agriculture Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (ACEF);

e) Call on any department, office, agency and other instrumentalities of the government for
assistance in the discharge of its functions;

f) Consolidate and submit periodic reports to the President on the status of food security
programs; and

g) Perform other functions as may be necessary to attain the objectives of the national food
security program and discharge such other duties as the President may direct.

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SEC. 2. Organization of the OPAFS . The OPAFS shall be headed by a Presidential Adviser on
Food Security with a Cabinet rank. It shall have a corps of Executive Staff and Administrative and
Finance Staff that shall function under the supervision and control of the Presidential Adviser on Food
Security.

SEC. 3. Supervision of relevant agencies . The following government offices shall be under the
supervision of the Presidential Adviser on Food Security for policy and program coordination, namely:

1. National Agriculture and Fisheries Council (NAFC)

2. National Nutrition Council (NNC)

3. National Agri-Business Corporation (NABCOR)

4. Such other offices as may be designated by the President of the Philippines from time to time.

SEC. 4. Appropriation of Funds . The Department of Budget and Management is hereby directed
to appropriate and release sufficient funds for the organization of the OPAFS and for its initial
operations. Henceforth, funds sufficient to fully carry out the functions and objectives of the OPAFS
shall be appropriated every fiscal year in the General Appropriations Act.

SEC. 5. Repealing Clause . All executive issuances, orders, rules and regulations, or parts thereof,
which are inconsistent with any provision of this Executive Order are hereby revoked, amended or
modified accordingly.

SEC. 6. Effectivity . This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 25 th day of May, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999).
Presidential Management Staff.

[Executive Order Nos.:

338]. Manila:

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OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
OF THE PHILIPPINES
malacaNang

malacaNang RECORDS OFFICE

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 104

Based on the records available on file and in the possession of Malacanang Records Office,
Executive Order No. 104 of Presidential Issuances of Joseph Ejercito Estrada was certified by their
office as a reserved number and that no original copy of this issuance was forwarded and released to
them.

Malacanang Records Office. (2015). [Memorandum: certification and official count of Presidential
Issuances]. Manila: Malacanang Records Office.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 105

TRANSFERRING THE NATIONAL AGRICULTURE AND FISHERY COUNCIL FROM THE
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE TO THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT

WHEREAS, it is the major aspiration and firm commitment of the Estrada Administration to
provide every Filipino adequate food at all times;

WHEREAS, said aspiration and commitment to the Filipino people can only be effectively realized
if there is private sector participation and empowerment of farmers and fisherfolk in the development
of agricultural and fishery sectors;

WHEREAS, the NAFC must be strengthened for it to be able to perform its primary task more
efficiently;

WHEREAS, there is an immediate need to transfer the NAFC from the Department of Agriculture
to the Office of the President to enable it to pursue its mandate more effectively and expeditiously;

WHEREAS, Section 31, Chapter 10, Title III, Book III of Executive No. 292, otherwise known as
the Administrative Code of 1997, provides continuing authority to the President of the Republic of the
Philippines to reorganize the administrative structure of the Office of the President;

NOW THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the power vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Dispositive Action . The NAFC is hereby transferred from the Department of
Agriculture to the Office of the President.

SECTION 2. Scope of Transfer . The transfer shall be limited to policy and program coordination/
integration and administrative supervision.

SECTION 3. Mode of Transfer . The Executive Director of NAFC shall immediately prepare and,
with the approval of the President, shall implement short and long-term plans and programs consistent
with the overall policy of agricultural development.

SECTION 4. Repealing Clause . All executive orders, rules and regulations and other issuances or
parts thereof that shall be inconsistent with the provisions of this Executive Order are hereby revoked
or modified accordingly.

SECTION 5. Effectivity . This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 30 th day of May, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 106

AMENDING EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 103 DATED MAY 25, 1999,

BY TRANSFERRING THE MANAGEMENT OF AGRICULTURE COMPETITIVENESS
ENHANCEMENT FUND (ACEF) AND NATIONAL NUTRITION COUNCIL (NNC)
TO THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

WHEREAS, the Department of Agriculture manages and oversees the volume of specific
agricultural product that is allowed to be imported with lower tariff as committed by the Philippines to
the World Trade Organization (WTO) under the Uruguay Round;

WHEREAS, the Department of Agriculture has properly linked up food production with
nutrition; and

WHEREAS, under Sec. 31, Title III, Book III of Administrative Code of 1987, the President has a
continuing authority to reorganize his Office.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by the Constitution, do hereby order the following:

SECTION 1. Management of Agriculture Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (ACEF) . The
Department of Agriculture shall manage the Agriculture Competitiveness Enhancement Fund in
accordance with R.A. 8178.

SEC. 2. Supervision of National Nutrition Council (NCC) . The management and supervision of
the National Nutrition Council shall be undertaken by the Department of Agriculture.

SEC. 3. Repealing Clause . All executive issuances, orders, rules and regulations, or parts thereof,
which are inconsistent with any provision of this Executive Order are hereby revoked, amended or
modified accordingly.

SEC. 4. Effectivity . This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 31 st day of May, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 107

SPECIFYING THE SALARY GRADES OF THE OFFICERS AND ENLISTED
PERSONNEL OF THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE PURSUANT TO SECTION 36
OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8551 OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL
POLICE REFORM AND REORGANIZATION ACT OF 1998

WHEREAS, Sections 28 and 36 of Republic Act No. 6975, otherwise known as “the Department
of the Interior and Local Government Act of 1990”, has specified the rank classification of the
members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and has articulated that the members of the PNP are
considered employees of the National Government and shall draw their salaries therefrom:

WHEREAS, Executive Order No. 389 dated December 28, 1996 provides for the final
implementation of salary increases effective November 1, 1997 and has modified the 35-Grade Salary
Schedule in favor of the 33-Grade salary Schedule consistent with those prescribed in Republic Act
No. 6758, otherwise known as “the Compensation and Position Classification Act of 1989”;

WHEREAS, Section 36 of Republic Act No. 8551, otherwise known as “the PNP Reform and
Reorganization Act of 1998”, expands the coverage of Section 36 of R.A. 6975 by providing that the
uniformed members of the PNP shall have the same salary grade level as that of public school teachers;

WHEREAS, pursuant to the abovecited provisions, there is now a need to prescribe the Salary
Grades for all PNP uniformed men;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by the Constitution, do hereby order and direct:

Section 1. Salary Grades for the PNP Ranks. Effective January 1, 1999 the following Salary
Grades for the PNP shall be implemented:

Salary Grade

Rank

Director General

Deputy Director General

Director

Chief Superintendent

Senior Superintendent

Superintendent

Chief Inspector

Senior Inspector

Inspector

Senior Police Office IV

Senior Police Office III

Senior Police Office II

Senior Police Office 1

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Police Officer III

Police Officer II

Police Officer

Section 2. Implementing Guidelines. The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM), in
coordination with the Department of Budget and Management, shall issue the necessary implementing
guidelines to carry out the purposes of this Order.

Section 3. Funding. For CY 1999, the funding requirements for the salary adjustments of affected
PNP officers and men shall be sourced from any available appropriations suitable for the purpose,
including the Organizational Adjustment Fund and/or the Miscellaneous Personnel Benefits Fund,
under the CY1999 General Appropriations Act. Thereafter, funding requirements shall be incorporated
in the regular appropriations of the PNP.

Done in the City of Manila, this 10 th day of June, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred and
Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 108

INCREASING THE SUBSISTENCE ALLOWANCE OF ALL POLICE
COMMISSIONED OFFICERS AND POLICE NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICERS
OF THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE (PNP) INCLUDING CADETS OF
THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE ACADEMY AND THOSE PNP RECRUITS
UNDERGOING TRAINING AT PNP TRAINING INSTITUTES

WHEREAS, Executive Order No. 18, dated August 25, 1998, provided for the increase of
subsistence allowance of officers and enlisted personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines from
Thirty Pesos (P30.00) to Sixty Pesos (P60.00) per day;

WHEREAS, the officers and personnel of the Philippine National Police, being primarily in charge
of the general peace and order situation of the country, are similarly grouped as the members of the
AFP insofar as the status of socio-economic limitations and benefits that both organizations enjoy as
part of the overall public order/safety, peace-keeping and national defense efforts of the government;

WHEREAS, in view of the increasing prices of food and other food products, the current
subsistence allowance of Thirty Pesos (P30.00) per day is no longer adequate to meet the minimum
quality and quantity of food and other nutritional requirements deemed appropriate for police
personnel;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by the Constitution and existing laws, do hereby
order:

Section 1. The subsistence allowance for Police Commissioned Officers and Police Non-
Commissioned Officers of the Philippine National Police, including cadets of the Philippine National
Academy and the PNP recruits undergoing training at PNP training institutes, is hereby increase from
Thirty Pesos (P30.00) to Sixty Pesos (P60.00) per day, effective January 1, 1999;

Section 2. For CY 1999, funds needed to implement this Order shall come from the Miscellaneous
Personnel Benefits Fund. For CY 2000 and beyond, the budgetary requirements shall be included in the
Annual Appropriations of the Philippine National Police;

Section 3. The Secretary of the Interior and Local Government shall issue such implementing
instructions as necessary and proper to carry out the intent of this Order;

Section 4. All rules and regulations and other issuances, or parts thereof, that are in conflict with
this Order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly;

Section 5. This Order takes effect immediately.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 10 th day of June, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office

Presidential

of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 109

DIRECTING ALL NATIONAL GOVERNMENT AGENCIES TO REVERT CERTAIN ACCOUNTS
PAYABLE TO THE CUMULATIVE RESULT OF OPERATIONS OF THE NATIONAL
GOVERNMENT AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

WHEREAS, Republic Act No. 3526 and Presidential Decree No. 1445 provide that the
Commission on Audit may revert to the Unappropriated Surplus of the General Fund - now called
Cumulative Result of Operations - any unliquidated balance of accounts payable which has been
outstanding for two years or more and against which no actual claim, administrative or judicial, has
been filed or which is not covered by perfected contracts on record, save for the unliquidated balances
of accounts payable in trust funds as long as the purposes for which the funds were created have not
been accomplished;

WHEREAS, Executive Order No. 228, series of 1970, provides that all accounts payable and
unliquidated obligations, two years old or over, and/or other undocumented accounts payable
irrespective of age are required to be reverted to the Unappropriated Surplus, save for the unliquidated
balances of accounts payable in trust funds as long as the purpose for which the funds were created
have not been accomplished;

WHEREAS, under Memorandum Order No. 181, series of 1988, all agencies were directed to
revert their 1985 and prior years accounts payable, be they documented or undocumented, as well as
their 1986 and 1987 undocumented accounts payable to the unappropriated surplus of the General
Fund with the exception of trust funds;

WHEREAS, despite the aforementioned law and issuances, it has been observed that there still
remains a proliferation of dormant and outstanding accounts payable in the books of accounts of
agencies;

WHEREAS, these prior years’ accounts payable hamper national government efforts to establish
a more realistic cash program;

WHEREAS, in view of the various competing demands on existing government financial
resources, there is a need to determine the actual cash requirements for accounts payable which are due
and demandable;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order and direct:

SECTION 1. Reversion of Accounts Payable. All 1995 and prior years documented accounts
payable and all undocumented accounts payable regardless of the year they were incurred shall be
reverted to the Cumulative Result of Operations of the National Government. Henceforth, all
documented accounts payable which have remained outstanding for two years shall be reverted to the
Cumulative Result of Operations of the National Government. Likewise, the practice of booking up
undocumented accounts payable shall be strictly prohibited.

SEC. 2. Funding Source for Reverted Claims. The Department of Budget and Management shall
provide a lump-sum fund in the Annual General Appropriations Act to cover legitimate obligations
of the National Government that may arise after the reversion of accounts payable as provided in

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Section 1 hereof: Provided , That this shall not be construed as an authority to revive claims already
barred by prescription or disallowed by a final administrative or judicial determination.

SEC. 3. Sanctions. Failure to comply with the provisions of this Order shall subject the responsible
official/s and employee/s to appropriate sanctions as circumstances may warrant.

SEC. 4. Applicability. This Executive Order shall apply to accounts payable of all funds, except
fiduciary funds as long as the purposes for which the funds were created have not been accomplished
and accounts payable under foreign-assisted projects for the duration of the said project.

SEC. 5. Rules and Regulations. The Department of Budget and Management and the Commission
on Audit shall jointly prepare the implementing rules and regulations of this Executive Order.

SEC. 6. Effectivity. This Order shall take effect immediately.

Done in the City of Manila, this 10 th of June, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred and
ninety nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 110

DIRECTING THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE TO SUPPORT THE ARMED
FORCES OF THE PHILIPPINES IN INTERNAL SECURITY OPERATIONS FOR
THE SUPPRESSION OF INSURGENCY AND OTHER SERIOUS THREATS
TO NATIONAL SECURITY

WHEREAS, Republic Act No. 8551, particularly Section 3 thereof, amending Section 12 of
Republic Act No. 6975, has relieved the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) of
the primary responsibility on matters involving the suppression of insurgency and other serious threats
to national security;

WHEREAS, Section 3 of Republic Act No. 8551 further provides that the Philippine National
Police (PNP) “shall, through information gathering and performance of its ordinary police functions,
support the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on matters involving suppression of insurgency,
except in cases where the President shall call on the PNP to support the AFP in combat operations”;

WHEREAS, the National Democratic Front (NDF) has manifested its intention to resume armed
struggle against the government and the Filipino people and the NDF negotiating panel has decided
not to engage in further peace negotiations with the government;

WHEREAS, as a result of the NDF termination of talks, the Central Committee of the Communist
Party of the Philippines (CPP) has directed the New People’s Army (NPA) to launch tactical offensives
from its “guerilla fronts” in order to “capture weapons and deal blows against the Government”;

WHEREAS, the NPA has started to undertake terroristic activities in several parts of the country;

WHEREAS, while the AFP elements have been deployed to contain the insurgency problem
throughout the country, there is need to continue mobilizing government resources to protect our
people from the terroristic activities of the NPA and to preserve public order and safety;

WHEREAS, the PNP is organized in the nature of a territorial force and, as such, has the presence
of personnel in all the provinces, cities and municipalities of the country;

WHEREAS, the National Peace and Order Council, in consultation with the Chairman of the
Regional Peace and Order Councils, has recommended the utilization of the PNP in internal security
operations against insurgency.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order the following:

SECTION 1. The PNP is hereby directed to support the AFP in internal security operations (ISO)
for the suppression of insurgency and other serious threats to national security. For this purpose, the
PNP is authorized to make appropriate adjustments in its organization subject to the approval of the
National Police Commission.

SECTION 2. There shall be established a joint AFP-PNP system which shall provide the
mechanism, structure and procedures for the integrated assessment of the security situation and for

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the integrated planning, coordinating, implementation and monitoring of necessary measures aimed at
enhancing the internal security of the state and its institutions.

SECTION 3. The Department of National Defense and the Department of the Interior and Local
Government shall jointly promulgate rules and regulations for the effective implementation of this
Executive Order.

SECTION 4. The initial funding requirements of the PNP to carry out the provisions of this
Executive Order shall be jointly determined and recommended by the PNP and AFP for the approval
of the President. The amount shall be drawn from the Contingent Fund and from other available funds
in the CY 1998 and 1999 General Appropriations Act. For the succeeding years, the amount required
shall be incorporated in the budget of PNP and the annual General Appropriations Act.

SECTION 5. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE, in the City of Manila, this 15th day of June, in the year of our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999).
Presidential Management Staff.

[Executive Order Nos.:

338]. Manila:

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. Ill

ESTABLISHING THE GUIDELINES FOR ECOTOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN THE PHILIPPINES

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the State to develop and promote sustainable tourism while
enjoining the participation of the Filipino people in enhancing the growth and competitiveness of the
Philippine economy;

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the state to ensure the sustainable use, development, management,
protection and conservation of the country’s environment and natural resources and cultural heritage
for the enjoyment of the present and future generations;

WHEREAS, the development and promotion of ecotourism in the Philippines are viable and
sustainable activities that will promote the protection of our environment while contributing at the
same time to the growth of the economy;

WHEREAS, there is a need to establish an integrating system that shall warrant and focus
government effort to sustain the viability of ecotorism development in the country; and

WHEREAS, the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of Environment and Natural
Resources (DENR) have issued a joint Memorandum Circular for the development of ecotourism in
the Philippines.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. National Ecotourism Development Council. There is hereby created a National
Ecotourism Development Council (NEDC) to be composed of the secretaries of the following
departments: Tourism, Environment and Natural Resources, Interior and Local Government, Trade
and Industry, Finance, National Economic and Development Authority, and Education, Culture and
Sports and representatives from the private sector and non-government organizations. The Chairperson
may invite other sectoral representatives in the NEDC. The NEDC, which shall serve as the policy-
making body for ecotourism, shall be chaired by the Department of Tourism and co-chaired by the
Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

The NEDC shall have a National Ecotourism Steering Committee (NESC) and Regional
Ecotourism Committees (REC) to effectively implement the programs and activities approved by the
Council. The NESC shall have the following composition:

DOT Undersecretary for Planning Chairperson

DENR Undersecretary for Environment Co-chairperson

Director, DENR-Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau

Director, DOT-Office of Tourism Development Planning

Director, DOT-Office of Product Research and Development

Director, DOT-Office of Tourism Standards

Director, Department of Interior and Local Government

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Private Sector Representative/s
Non-Government Organization/s

The REC, on the other hand, shall be composed of the following:

Regional Director, DOT
Regional Executive Director, DENR

Chairperson

Co-Chairperson

Regional Technical Director for Environmental Management
and Protected Area Sector (EMPAS), DENR
NEDA-PCSD

Private Sector Representative
NGO Representative

Concerned Local Government Unit Representative

The Chairmanship of the Council and its committees shall have a term of three (3) years and shall
be held on notation basis by DOT and DENR.

SEC. 2. Functions and Responsibilities of the Ecotourism Committees.

he NESC shall be responsible to the following:

a) Formulate and develop a national ecotourism strategy and program for the promotion and
development of ecotourism in the country;

b) Formulate and recommend policies, guidelines and programs relevant to the development and
promotion of ecotourism in the country;

c) Review, evaluate and approve major ecotourism project proposals;

d) Devise an accreditation and incentives mechanism for ecotourism projects;

e) Conduct consultation with the local population to be affected by ecotourism development to
integrate their cultural values and beliefs in ecotourism plans and programs which may be
formulated through their own initiative;

f) Provide technical and financial assistance to communities which are included in the network of
ecotourism sites to be established by the Council.

g) Supervise and monitor the implementation of policies, guidelines ecotourism programs/
projects/ activities in the country; and

h) Perform such other activities as may be necessary to carry out the objectives of the Order.

The REC shall have the following functions:

a) Review, evaluate, approve and monitor ecotourism projects in their region;

b) Implement policies, guidelines, programs, projects and activities formulated by the Council;

c) Identify network of ecotourism sites in the region;

d) Recommend plans and programs for ecotourism; and

e) Perform such other activities as may be prescribed by the council.

SEC. 3. Secretariat Support. The NEDC shall establish an Ecotourism Technical Working Group
to provide technical and administrative support to the NEDC and NESC in the implementation of the

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Order. The NEDC may also request the services and support of other government agencies necessary in
the development and implementation of ecotourism programs in the country.

SEC. 4. Formulation of a National Ecotourism Strategy. A National Ecotourism Strategy
shall by prepared by the Council to provide an integrated management plan which shall warrant a
comprehensive direction for the future of ecotourism in the country by recognizing issues and problems
for its sustainable development and recommend feasible approaches in addressing these issues. The
Strategy shall be formulated in consultation with concerned stockholders in the environment and
tourism sectors including indigenous peoples and local communities to be affected by ecotourism
development.

SEC. 5. National Ecotourism Program. To complement and support the aforementioned Strategy,
a set of National Ecotourism Programs shall be developed. The program shall encompass the major
aspects of ecotourism, which are: 1) development, management and protection of identified ecotourism
sites; 2) product enhance and development; 3) environmental education and information campaign; 4)
support programs for community stewardship and livelihood development.

SEC. 6. Operational Budget. The Department of Environment and National Resources (DENR)
and Department of Tourism (DOT) shall allocate funds from their respective regular budgets which
shall be used for the operations of the NEDC. The NEDC is also empowered to generate funds through
an appropriate financial mechanism and to receive aids, grants and/or donations. The funds generated
from this mechanism shall be placed in an Ecotourism Fund to finance the various ecotourism
programs and activities pursuant to the mandate of the NEDC.

SEC. 7. Repealing Clause. All executive orders, circulars, rules and regulations or parts thereof
contrary to or inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

SEC. 8. Separability Clause. If any portion of this Act is declared unconstitutional of invalid, any
provision not affected thereby shall remain in full force and affect.

SEC. 9. Effectivity Clause. This order shall take affect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 17 th day of JUNE, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 112

RE-DIRECTING THE FUNCTIONS AND OPERATIONS OF THE
DEPARTMENT OF NATIONAL DEFENSE

WHEREAS, under Section 15, Chapter I, Title VIII, Book IV of Executive Order No. 292 (Revised
Administrative Code of 1987), the Department of National Defense (DND) is mandated to maximize
its effectiveness for guarding against external and internal threats to national peace and security and
provide support for social and economic development;

WHEREAS, the DND is the primary government agency which supervises the Armed Forces of
the Philippines (AFP), the Government Arsenal (GA), the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO),
the National Defense College of the Philippines (NDCP) and the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), as well
as supervise and administer the AFP Modernization Program;

WHEREAS, in view of these mandates, there is a need to refocus the functions of the existing
organizational units, as well as the operational structures and reporting systems in the DND to make
its organizational set-up and operational processes more efficient and effective and responsive to
emerging defense concerns;

WHEREAS, there is a need to re-cluster the existing bureaus and offices of the DND Proper to
ensure accountability and establish a reporting system with clear lines of authority among the various
offices in the Department as well as those in the Office of the Secretary of National Defense;

WHEREAS, there is a need for the realignment of bureaus and offices to delineate responsibilities
based on the following functional categories: operations; policy and strategic planning; and
administration and finance in accordance with existing rules and regulations on the same;

WHEREAS, under Section 20, Chapter 7, Title I, Book III of Executive Order No. 292, the
President is empowered to exercise such powers and functions vested in him which are provided for
under the laws;

WHEREAS, Section I.XLVHI of RA 8745 (1999 GAA) provides for an Organizational Fund
(OAF) for the Department of National Defense under the Office of the Secretary;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order the following:

Section 1. Mandate. Consistent with the provisions of the Revised Administrative Code of 1987
(EO 292), the DND is hereby mandated to maximize its effectiveness for guarding against external
and internal threats to national peace and security, promote the welfare of soldiers and veterans, and
provide support for social and economic development.

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Section 2. Roles. To fulfill its responsibilities under this mandate, the DND shall serve as:

a) the lead line agency and authority in formulating the national defense-security policies, plans
and programs on defense and security;

b) the monitor and evaluator of the implementation of policies, plans and programs on defense
and security;

c) the administrator, of the National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) special funds
intended to assist Local Government Units (LGUs), communities, families and citizens affected
by calamities and/or disasters;

d) an innovator of new strategies on defense and security issues, including and pursuant to the
national defense plan;

e) an enabler of National Government Agencies (NGAs), local government units (LGUs),
government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs), non-government organizations
(NGOs), People’s Organizations (POs), and other members of civil society in implementing
civil defense and socio-economic development programs requiring defense and military
assistance;

f) an advocate for social and economic development concerns, to include resource and
environmental protection and preservation up to the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ),
emergency preparedness and mitigation, soldiers and veterans’ welfare, and other similar
concerns; and

g) implementor of the country’s international defense and security commitments based on defense
and security treaties, cooperation agreements, international covenants, protocols and other
similar arrangements.

Section 3. Functional Focus. To accomplish its mandate and roles, the Department shall:

a) Formulate, develop and promote policies, plans, programs and projects in the field of defense,
and in coordination with the NSC, in the field of security;

b) Direct, plan and supervise the national defense program;

c) Undertake researches and studies and adopt policies to ensure the effective implementation of
the national defense plan and other related programs and projects;

d) Exercise supervision and control over the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Government
Arsenal, Office of Civil Defense, Philippine Veterans Affairs Office and the National Defense
College of the Philippines;

e) Supervise the setting of standards, accreditation and furnishing of technical assistance to
institutions, organizations, corporations and persons engaged in emergency management or
related development activities requiring defense and military assistance;

f) Advocate for and disseminate information on defense-security issues;

g) Provide augmentation funding and resources to partners in civil defense activities;

h) In coordination with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), implement, promote and
maintain bilateral and multilateral linkages for defense and military cooperation that are
initiated, negotiated, or concluded by the DFA; and

i) Perform such other functions as may be provided by law.

Section 4. Preparation of a Rationalization and Organizational Adjustment Plan. In view of the
functional and operational redirection in the DND, and to effect efficiency and effectiveness in its

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activities, the Department shall prepare a Rationalization and Organizational Adjustment Plan (ROAP)
which shall be the basis of the operational and organizational adjustments. The ROAP shall provide
the framework for the following:

a) the clustering of bureaus and offices in ways that will ensure accountability;

b) the establishment of a reporting system with clear lines of authority among the various offices
in the Department as well as those in the Office of the Secretary of National Defense;

c) the realignment of offices delineating responsibilities based on the following functional,
categories: operations; policy and strategic planning; and administration and finance in
accordance with existing rules and regulations on the same; and

d) the rationalization of the Department’s staffing pattern, ensuring that the resulting revised
staffing complement of the Department duly includes a rationalization and/or integration plan
for the occupants of casual positions.

The ROAP shall be submitted to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) for approval
prior to the implementation by the DND Secretary. The DBM, in this regard, is hereby authorized to
create key positions and/or upgrade existing positions if found necessary.

Section 5. Redeployment of Personnel. As necessary, the existing personnel of the DND shall be
redeployed in accordance with the requirements of the ROAP and existing civil service laws and rules.
Such redeployment shall not result in the diminution in rank and compensation of affected personnel.

Section 6. Funding. The financial resources required to implement the Rationalization and
Organizational Adjustment Plan shall be taken from funds available in the DND: Provided, That the
total cost of the approved staffing pattern shall not exceed the authorized appropriations of the agency
for Personal Services, as well as the outlay for Personal Services under the existing Organizational
Adjustment Fund (OAF) of RA 8745 (FY 1999 General Appropriations Act).

Section 7. Repealing Clause. All other Executive Orders and Issuances inconsistent with this
Executive Order are hereby rescinded or modified accordingly.

Section 8. Separability Clause. If any provision of this Executive Order is held invalid, other
provisions not affected thereby shall be valid and binding.

Section 9. Effectivity. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 1 8 th day of JUNE, in the year of the Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety-nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 113

ESTABLISHING THE ANNUAL GAWAD PANGULO SA KAPALIGIRAN
(KAunlaran ng mga PAmahalaang lokal sa kaLInisan at kapaliGIRang luntiAN)

WHEREAS, there is an increasing global recognition of the need for concerted efforts toward a
more effective management of the environment;

WHEREAS, as part of the overall effort to create greater awareness and sharper understanding of
environmental management within the purview of sustainable development, there is a need to generate
multi-sectoral advocacy, recognition and support towards nurturing nature and environment;

WHEREAS, saving the environment must be a way of life of the Filipino - engendered by a
commitment to the future, cognizant of the fact that he is just a trustee of the generations yet to come;

WHEREAS, the institutionalization of an integrated system of providing incentives and rewards
is designed to propel local officials and their constituents to perform better and achieve a tradition of
work excellence;

WHEREAS, said integrated system will avoid program duplication and waste of resources by
rationalizing LGU-related environment and cleanliness activities in pursuing the government’s thrust of
promoting environmental management nationwide;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

Section 1 . Establishing the Awards. - There is hereby established the annual GAWAD PANGULO
SA KAPALIGIRAN ( KA unlaran ng mga PAmahalaang lokal sa kaLInisan at kapali GIR ang lunti AN )
which shall integrate the National Clean and Green Awards and the Linis Bayan Program;

Section 2. Creation of the Awards. The following Gawad Pangulo are hereby created:

Gawad Pangulo sa KAPALIGIRAN (Pambayan Category)

Category A : First to Third Class Municipalities Cluster
Category B : Fourth to Sixth Class Municipalities Cluster

Gawad Pangulo sa KAPALIGIRAN (Panlungsod Category)

Category A : Highly Urbanized Cities Cluster

Category B : Component Cities Cluster

Gawad Pangulo sa KAPALIGIRAN (Panlalawigan Category)

Gawad Pangulo sa KAPALIGIRAN (Inland Bodies of Water Category)

Category A : Lakes

Category B : Rivers

Section 3. Creation of a National Awards Committee. - There is hereby created a National
Awards Committee on the Gawad Pangulo sa KAPALIGIRAN, composed of the following:

Secretary of the Interior and Local Government Chairman

Private Sector Representative Co-Chairman

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Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources
Private Sector Representative
Secretary of Tourism
Secretary of Health

Secretary of Education, Culture and Sports
Head, Philippine Information Agency
Head, Presidential Management Staff
Two (2) Private Sector Representatives

Vice Chairman

Co-Vice Chairman

Member

Members

The Presidential Management Staff (PMS) and the Department of the Interior and Local
Government (DILG), through the Bureau of Local Government Supervision, shall jointly provide
secretariat support to the Committee.

Section 4. Functions of the Committee. The National Awards Committee shall have the following
functions:

a) Initiate and coordinate necessary activities for the successful implementation of the Gawad
Pangulo;

b) Set guidelines and criteria for the selection of the Gawad Pangulo sa KAPALIGIRAN at all
levels;

c) Select the national judges who shall come from the private business and industry sector,
non-government organizations, and the government sector, and set broad guidelines for the
selection of national winners;

d) Identify the lowest performing local government units at all levels;

e) Secure funding and the counterpart prizes from the private sector; and

f) Render a report to the President and give appropriate recommendations on the implementation
of the Gawad Pangulo.

Section 5. Selection of Awardees. - The parameters to be used in selecting the Presidential
Awardees shall be determined by the National Awards Committee.

Section 6. Funding. - For the initial years of implementation (1999 and 2000) of the Gawad
Pangulo sa KAPALIGIRAN, the Department of the Interior and Local Government shall allocate from
its agency fund the necessary amount to defray the administrative expenses relative to the conduct of
meetings by the Committee. The member agencies mentioned in Section 1 hereof shall allocate funds
from their respective annual budgets to ensure the active and effective participation of their national
and field officers in the implementation of the Gawad Pangulo.

From CY 2001 onwards, the DILG shall appropriate the amount of three million pesos
(Php 3,000,000.00) each year to defray the administrative expenses of the Committee.

Section 7. Awards and Prizes. - The Gawad Pangulo sa KAPALIGIRAN shall be conferred to each
national awardee as indicated in Section 2 hereof, through the local chief executive (LCE), in the form
of a Presidential Trophy and a cash award of not less than one million pesos (Php 1,000,000.00) worth
of livelihood and environmental management-related projects, to be sourced from the President’s Social
Fund. The winners of Gawad Pangulo for Inland Bodies of Water shall each be conferred through
the LCE a Presidential Trophy and cash award of not less than two hundred fifty thousand pesos
(P250,000.00) worth of livelihood and environmental management-related projects, to be sourced
from the President’s Social Fund.

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Likewise, each of the national finalists in the six (6) categories shall be conferred with a
Presidential Plaque of Commendation.

In the event that a local government unit wins for three (3) consecutive years in the same category,
or becomes a five-time awardee in any category, the said LGU shall be a recipient of the Hall of Fame
Award. As such, said LGU shall be conferred a Presidential Trophy and an additional cash award of
one million pesos (Php 1,000,000.00) worth of livelihood and environmental management-related
projects, also to be sourced from the President’s Social Fund.

Section 8. Design Specifications. - The National Historical Institute shall prescribe the design
specifications of the Presidential Trophy and Presidential Plaque of Commendation which will
be manufactured with funds from the Department of Tourism (trophies) and the Department of
Environment and Natural Resources (plaques).

Section 9. Repealing Clause. - Any previous issuances which are inconsistent with this Order is
hereby revoked or amended accordingly.

Section 10. Effectivity Clause. - This Order shall take effect immediately.

Done in the City of Manila, this 18 th day of JUNE, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred and
ninety-nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 114

FURTHER AMENDING EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 175, DATED 30 APRIL 1994 CREATING
THE NORTHWESTERN LUZON GROWTH QUADRANGLE COMMISSION, AS AMENDED
BY EO 223 DATED 7 FEBRUARY 1995, EO 229 DATED 19 MARCH 1995, EO 259 DATED
11 JULY 1995, EO 373 DATED 10 OCTOBER 1996, AND EO 447 DATED 2 OCTOBER
1997, TO EXPAND ITS COVERAGE TO INCLUDE THE WHOLE OF THE CORDILLERA
ADMINISTRATIVE REGION (CAR) AND REGION 2

I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the Philippines, by virtue of the
power vested in me by law, do hereby order the amendment of Executive Order No. 175 dated 30 April
1994, as amended by Executive Order No. 223 dated 7 February 1995, Executive Order No. 229
dated 19 March 1995, Executive Order No. 259 dated 11 July 1995, and Executive Order No. 447
dated 2 October 1997, which created the Northwestern Luzon Growth Quadrangle (North Quad)
Commission, as follows:

The preambulatory portion of EO No. 175, series of 1994, as amended, is hereby amended to
expand the program coverage of the North Quad to include all cities and provinces of Region II and
the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), and, as such, to read as follows:

“WHEREAS, the establishment of growth areas and industrial economic cooperation between
and among regions across the country has become the unified response to the outward-looking
megatrend of economic globalization;

WHEREAS, the North Luzon, consisting of Regions I, II, and CAR, is envisioned to become a
strategic growth area in the country as well as in the North-East Asian region;

WHEREAS, the agglomeration of the three (3) regions into a solid economic bloc takes
cognizance, among other things, of their historical and socio-cultural ties, their contiguity, their
ecological interdependence where economic activities in the upland affect those in the lowlands;

WHEREAS, the three regions, if developed together under the framework of integrated and
sustainable development, could avail of economies of scale and economies of network that will permit
synergistic and complementary development;

WHEREAS, major growth zones/areas and development projects within the North Luzon Area
do not only include the Northwestern Luzon Growth Quadrangle (North Quad) covering Region I and
the province of Abra and the BLIST area (Baguio-La Trinidad-Itogon-Sablan-Tuba) of CAR, but also,
the Cagayan Special Economic Zone and Freeport (CSEZF) in Sta. Ana, Cagayan, and all such other
economic and tourist zones and centers in Regions 1, 2, and CAR;

WHEREAS, the coordinative and management mechanisms for the planning, implementation and
monitoring of some of the growth areas and key programs/projects approved earlier are found to be
within the framework of the government’s decentralization, regionalization and development dispersal

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policy as provided under Executive Order Nos. 363 and 505 dated July 17, 1989 and February 12,
1992, respectively;

WHEREAS, the economic integration of Regions I, II and CAR will provide the North Luzon
area a competitive advantage vis-a-vis other integrated economies;

WHEREAS, the concept of economic integration of Regions I, II, and CAR has been endorsed by
the Regional Development Council of Regions I, II and CAR and likewise endorsed by the House of
Representatives through House Resolution No. 391.”

SECTION 1. Section 1 is further amended to read as follows:

“Section 1. North Luzon Growth Commission. There is hereby created, under the Office of the
President, a Presidential Commission to be called the North Luzon Growth Commission, hereinafter
referred to as the Commission, to ensure complementarity and synergy among the various growth
zones/areas in Regions I, II and CAR. The Commission shall be responsible in orchestrating overall
coordination of all existing areas/zones and key programs/projects. It shall be composed of the
following members:

Secretary, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)

Secretary, Department of Agriculture (DA)

Secretary, Department of Tourism (DOT)

Secretary, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)

Secretary, Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC)

Secretary, Department of Environmental and Natural Resources (DENR)

Secretary, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)

Director-General, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA)

Presidential Assistant for Northern Luzon, Office of the President (OP)

Executive Director, Coordinating Council of the Philippine Assistance Program (CCPAP)
Chairman, Regional Development Councils (RDC) of Regions I and II and Executive Director,
Cordillera Executive Board (CEB)

Regional Governors, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Regions I, II and
CAR

Regional Federation Chairmen, NGO Regions I, II and CAR

Executive Director, Program Management Office of the North Luzon Growth Commission (Ex-
officio member)

The Commission shall be chaired by the Secretary of Trade and Industry.

The Commission shall have the following functions:

a) Provide overall policy direction, coordination and monitoring of all programs/project
components and development activities of the North Luzon Development Program (NLDP);

b) Initiate and cause the preparation, update, and refinement of a North Luzon Growth Master
Development Plan, and/or an Inter-Regional Development Strategy and Framework Plan,
considering existing development plans, programs, projects in the area;

c) Initiate and cause the preparation of feasibility studies for the financing of various projects
identified for North Luzon;

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d) Formulate policies towards effective implementation of the various growth areas/zones
particularly those projects which require inter-regional collaboration and complementation;

e) Resolve conflicts referred to it by the various area and project structures, specifically pertaining
to the inter-regional implementation of programs/projects;

f) Encourage the support and assistance from government and non-governement institutions
in planning, implementation, and evaluation of the various projects under the North Luzon
Development Program (NLDP);

g) Encourage local and foreign investments in the area by providing attractive climate and
business activity;

h) Network with government and other development institutions to generate resources and
economic opportunities for North Luzon;

i) Develop linkages with other growth areas in the ASEAN and Asia Pacific Region;

j) Accept and manage grants, donations or any such funds for the development of North Luzon;

k) Negotiate for the sourcing of funds to include ODA on a bilateral or multi-lateral basis in
accordance with existing rules and regulations;

l) Organize its Executive Committee (Excom) and Program Management Office (PMO), define
its organizational set-up, establish its staffing pattern as well as internal operating systems and
procedures;

m) Review and confirm contracts entered into by the Executive Director of the PMO;

n) Review and endorse to the concerned implementing bodies (central offices) the annual budget
of the NLDP to ensure that the funding is included in the annual budgets of concerned
government agencies;

o) Review and endorse to the Department of Budget and Management the annual budget for the
operations of the Commission and the PMO;

p) Submit to the President regular progress reports on the NLDP and other reports as may be
required;

q) Adopt rules, systems and procedures and structures which the Commission may deem
necessary to carry out its various functions;

r) Mobilize private sector participation as the primary actor for the development of North Luzon;

s) Conduct advocacy and investment promotion activities;

t) Propose to the President and Congress a more permanent development structure and
mechanism for the North Luzon growth, area with a corresponding budget;

u) Perform such other functions as the President may direct.”

SEC. 2. Section 2 is further amended to read as follows:

“Section 2. The Executive Committee - There is hereby created an Executive Committee (ExCom)
of the North Luzon Growth Commission to supervise day-to-day program operations. The ExCom,
which shall be composed of not more than one-third (1/3) of the total membership of the fully-
constituted Commission, shall be comprised of the Executive Director of the Program Management
Office of the North Luzon Growth Commission and the representatives from DTI, NEDA, DA, DOT,
DPWEI, and DOTC, who shall be appointed/designated by their respective cabinet secretaries. The
Chairman of the ExCom shall be appointed by the Commission Chairman. Where necessary, action/s
undertaken by the ExCom shall be confirmed by the Commission proper.

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The Executive Committee shall have the following functions:

a) Monitor and submit report on the progress of the North Luzon Development Program (NLDP)
and other required reports to the Commission;

b) Perform such functions as may be delegated by the Commissioner proper;

c) Evaluate and refine North Luzon development plans/projects, considering other plans and
inputs of the local government units, concerned entities and endorse to the Commission for
approval and adoption;

d) Evaluate the annual budget of the NLDP and endorse to the Commission for approval;

e) Prepare an action plan for the utilization of funds (grants, donations, etc.) for the development
of North Luzon;

f) Initiate the negotiation for development funds to include ODA on a bilateral or multi-lateral
basis;

g) Review and approve the terms of reference (TOR) for the conduct of feasibility studies on
projects in North Luzon;

h) Review and evaluate the feasibility of various projects identified in North Luzon;

i) Endorse/present the feasibility studies to the Commission for adoption/final approval;

j) Evaluate and approve contracts entered into by the PMO and endorse the same to the
Commission for confirmation;

k) Lormulate related policies governing the North Luzon growth area in coordinating and
monitoring all program/project components and recommend to the Commission for approval
and policy implementations;

l) Review all progress reports submitted by the PMO and other required reports for submission
to the Commission;

m) Recommend to the Commission the organizational set-up, staffing pattern and internal
operating system of the PMO;

n) Evaluate and endorse to the Commission the annual budget of the PMO; and

o) Lormulate rules, system and procedures and recommend to the Commission for adoption.”

SEC. 3. Section 3 is further amended to read as follows

“Section 3. Program Management Office - The existing Program Management Office (PMO) of
the North Quad Commission shall continue to serve as the implementing arm as well as technical and
administrative Secretariat of the Commission, and as such, shall undertake the day-to-day activities
of the Commission. The PMO shall be strengthened and expanded in proportion to the increase in its
program coverage. Employee remuneration in terms of salaries, allowances and other benefits shall
also be increased in consultation with the Department of Budget and Management. The PMO shall be
headed by an Executive Director to be appointed by the President.

The Program Management Office shall have the following functions:

a) Coordinate with the RDCs concerned in the upholding, refinement, endorsement and
implementation of the investment programs and projects for North Luzon;

b) Coordinate the preparation of feasibility studies or other related studies of the project
components of the North Luzon Development Program (NLDP) and the evaluation and
financing of feasible projects;

c) Coordinate with the RDCs in the preparation of the annual budgetary requirements of the
programs/projects of North Luzon to ensure that their funding requirements will form part

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of the annual budget of the concerned implementing bodies and submit the same to the
Commission;

d) Prepare the annual budget of the Commission for the latter’s approval;

e) Enter into contracts with the proper approval of the Commission;

f) Undertake day-to-day operations to include securing the release, transfer, deposit of funds
from the proper agency and administering the funds of the NLDP, including disbursements for
proper expenses and payables;

g) Undertake periodic policy implementation review and evaluation of the NLDP and shall, for
that purpose, design and operationalize the implementation, monitoring and evaluation system
consistent with the Regional Project Monitoring and Evaluation System (RPMES);

h) Provide research and technical assistance to the Commission;

i) Develop and maintain a comprehensive information system;

j) Conduct or coordinate training and other capability-building programs on areas of interest
which are crucial to the activities of the Commission and its Excom; and,

k) Perform such other functions and responsibilities as the Commission/ExCom may direct.

Additional staff support may be provided to the PMO by the NEDA, DTI and such other agencies
in Regions I, II and CAR as the need arises.”

SEC. 4. Section 4 is further amended to read as follows:

“Section 4. Role of Implementing Bodies (National Line Agencies/Local Government Units ,
NGOs/Pos, GOCCS ). - In close coordination with concerned RDCs, the National Line Agencies in
the region, development authorities and special project offices, government-owned and controlled
corporations, local government units, non-government organizations/private sector shall, as
appropriate, serve as implementing entities of the North Luzon Development Program (NLDP) related
activities.

SEC. 5. Section 5 is further amended to read as follows:

“Section 5. Role of Local (Regional/ Provincial/City/Municipal Development Councils . - The
Local Development Councils within the program area shall perform the following functions:

a) Approve the respective local components of the multi-year and annual plans and investment
programs under the North Luzon Development Program (NLDP);

b) Monitor and conduct periodic review (in accordance with the project program of work) of
the local project component with respect to achievement of goals, objectives and targets of the
NLDP;

c) Coordinate and facilitate the preparation of site specific development plans, programs and
projects;

d) Coordinate the passage of municipal and/or provincial resolutions declaring the areas for
industrial and tourism use, if not declared or classified as such;

e) Coordinate with the Regional/Provincial Land Use Committees and Sangguniangs concerned
on the review and approval of the land use and zoning plans of North Luzon growth area
component sites;

f) Spearhead the coordination of area inter-agency activities within the area/province of
jurisdiction on the implementation of the NLDP;

g) To perform advocacy and consultative role; and

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h) Perform such other functions as the PMO may request.”

SEC. 6. Section 6 is further amended to read as follows:

Section 6. Adviisoty Council . - There is hereby created an advisory council whose members are
Senators, Representatives, and other Cabinet Secretaries from Region I, II and CAR.

The advisory council shall have the following functions:

a) To ensure that the development goals, policies and programs formulated by the Commission
are properly coordinated with the overall national goals, policies and programs;

b) To provide national leadership in promoting investment in North Luzon; and

c) To maintain liaison with Congress and central government offices and, as necessary, arrange the
needed support for projects under NLDP from central agencies, including funding agencies.”

SEC. 7. Section 7 is hereby amended to read as follows:

“Section 7. Funding Requirement. - The amount of Fifteen Million Pesos (PhP 15.0 Million), to
be drawn from the budget of the Office of the President-DBM savings/organizational adjustment fund,
shall be released as additional budget for the operations of the expanded PMO, for the preparation
of a new master development plan for the North Luzon growth area, and as start-up fund for pre-
feasibility and pre-investment studies.

Appropriations for the year 2000 and the succeeding years for the operation of the PMO shall be
incorporated and singled out in the budget of the Office of the President.”

SEC. 8. Section 8 is hereby amended to read as follows:

“Section 8. The Term of the Commission and the Program Management Office. - The
Commission and Program Management Office shall have a term corresponding to the implementation
period of the North Luzon Development program (formerly North Quad Development Program). The
NEDA Board, through its Secretariat, is hereby directed to conduct an annual review and evaluation of
the management and coordinating structures of the Commission and the Project Management Office.
Recommendations and revisions, if any, shall be submitted to the President for approval not later than
the last working day of January of the following year.”

SEC. 9. Section 9 is hereby amended to read as follows:

“Section 9 Effectivity. - This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.”

SEC. 10. All subsequent sections of Executive Order 75, as amended, are hereby repealed.

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Done in the City of Manila, this 28 th day of JUNE, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred and
ninety-nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 115

PROVIDING FOR THE MECHANICS AND OPERATIONAL STRUCTURE FOR THE
LOCALIZATION OF PEACE EFFORTS TO ADDRESS THE COMMUNIST INSURGENCY

WHEREAS, the State recognizes that the attainment of a just, comprehensive and lasting peace
under the rule of law and in accordance with Constitutional processes, is the basic foundation of
economic development and national prosperity;

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the State to pursue a comprehensive peace process to attain a just,
comprehensive and lasting peace under the implementing principles and approaches towards the paths
to peace as embodied under Executive Order No. 125 dated 15 September 1993;

WHEREAS, in the furtherance of the above peace process and consistent with the principles and
approaches thereof, the government deems it necessary and vital to localize and pursue its peace efforts
with the communist insurgents on the ground to address the causes of armed conflict and at the same
time prevent situations of “unpeace”, and to provide the communist rebels with the opportunity to
participate in the democratic process of peace and development in the community;

WHEREAS, there is a need to provide an efficient mechanism and structure for the localization of
the government’s peace efforts towards realizing its objectives and thereby, facilitate the attainment of a
just, comprehensive and lasting peace;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order the adoption of the following
mechanics and operational structure for the localization of the government’s peace efforts:

Section 1. Framework for Localizing Peace Efforts. The peace efforts of the government shall
hereby be focused on addressing directly the specific issues and/or concerns on the ground, which are
considered the causes of insurgency and/or creating situations of “unpeace” in a particular area. These
shall be jointly pursued by the government and the community with, to the extent possible, concerned
local communist insurgency group, hereinafter referred to as the insurgency group.

Section 2. Local Peace Forum. The local peace efforts shall be pursued through a local-based
Peace Forum, which shall be constituted by the President from time to time in areas where it is deemed
appropriate to undertake the above peace initiative.

The Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, in coordination with the concerned agencies and
the local peace constituency, shall identify and recommend to the President, through the National
Peace Forum herein referred to, the areas where Local Peace Forum may be organized as well as their
respective composition of five (5) to seven (7) members representing preferably civil society and local
government.

Once constituted, the members of the Local Peace Forum shall elect from among themselves their
Chair and Co-Chairperson, provided one of whom is from civil society.

The Local Peace Forum, which shall be clothed with the necessary powers from the President,
shall undertake the following activities:

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a. Reach-out to the local community and insurgency group to encourage their participation in
the Local Peace Forum. The latter’s participation thereto, however, shall not be considered a
requisite for pursuing the activities lodged with the Local Peace Forum under this Order;

b. Serve as a problem-solving mechanism in the community. As such, it shall identify issues
attendant to the local insurgency, including concerns, which are creating situations of
“unpeace” in its areas of responsibility, and thereafter, coordinate and/or cause the efficient
resolution of the same.

c. Serve as peace advocate by identifying and undertaking measures to promote an environment
and culture of peace in the community.

d. Refer issues and concerns requiring Presidential intervention and/or actions from the Executive,
Legislative and Judicial Branches of the government to the National Peace Forum. It shall also
provide regular feedback on their status to the concerned community;

e. Provide the President, through the National Peace Forum, regular status report on its activities
as well as the peace situations in its area of responsibility; and

f. Undertake other tasks, which may be deemed necessary by the President and the National
Peace Forum.

In carrying out its tasks, the Local Peace Forum shall build on the accomplishments already
achieved by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, which has established a
nationwide network of peace partners and local peace-building programs, as well as by the National
Unification Commission created under Executive Order No. 19 dated 1 September 1992, including
the linkages and public consultation processes the Commission has established. The Local Peace Fora,
which may be organized under this Order, shall necessarily enhance various existing local peace efforts.

Section 3. National Peace Forum. There is hereby created the National Peace Forum, to be
chaired by the Executive Secretary, to address issues affecting the peace efforts, which the Local Peace
Fora are unable to address.

The Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, through the Executive Secretary, shall recommend
to the President for approval the membership of the National Peace Forum, preferably three (3) Cabinet
Members; two (2) Members from Congress; and four (4) from civil society. Upon its formation, the
members of the National Peace Forum, shall elect from among themselves their Co-Chairperson,
preferably a representative from civil society.

The National Peace Forum shall undertake the following activities:

a. Identify and resolve national issues impacting directly on the insurgency, including those
concerns endorsed thereto by the Local Peace Fora;

b. Identify and recommend to the President the appropriate areas where the Local Peace Forum
may be organized and its membership. The identification of areas for local peace efforts
shall be undertaken by the National Peace Forum on a continuing basis, of which the initial
areas and the recommended composition of their Local Peace Fora, shall be submitted to the
President within two weeks from the formation of the national forum.

c. Formulate, based on its initiatives and peace efforts of the Local Peace Fora, a national peace
agenda which shall pave the way for lasting peace settlements with the insurgency groups in
the country. The national peace agenda shall necessarily revitalize and complement the six
(6) paths to peace as embodied under EO 125, specifically the pursuit of societal reforms for
peace;

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d. Coordinate and monitor the peace initiatives of the Local Peace Fora towards the efficient
attainment of the objectives set under this Order;

e. Submit regular reports to the President on the status of the national efforts to attain peace
settlements with the local insurgency groups, including recommendations to enhance the
implementation of the national peace agenda;

f. Formulate the necessary implementing rules and regulations for the efficient operationalization
of this Order; and

g. Undertake other tasks, which the President may deem necessary.

The Cabinet Advisory Committee for Peace Talks, whenever necessary, shall make available itself
to the National Peace Forum for consultation. The activities of the GRP Panel for Talks with the CPP/
NPA/NDF created under EO 125 are hereby suspended until such time talks are revived, during which
time the President may reconstitute the Panel.

Section 4. National Peace Forum Secretariat. The Office of Presidential Adviser on the Peace
Process, through the Secretariat of the GRP Panel for Talks with the CPP/NPA/NDF, shall serve as
the Secretariat of the National Peace Forum. In addition to the Secretariat, it is authorized to create
Technical Committees and Task Forces it may deem necessary to enhance the discharge of its tasks.

Section 5. Role of the Local Chief Executives and Other Local Government Agencies. The local
chief executives as well as local government agencies shall provide necessary coordination and support
to the Local Peace Fora to enhance the success of the peace efforts in the area or community. Whenever
necessary, the Local Peace Fora may also tap and mobilize technical assistance and resources of local
government agencies including the local government units. In this regard, the national agencies shall
ensure the consistent and timely cooperation of their regional offices and extensions to the Local Peace
Fora.

Section 6. Funding. The National Peace Forum shall be funded with an initial allocation of Twenty
Million Pesos (P20,000,000) from the President’s Contingent Fund and existing and unexpended
budget of the GRP Panel for Talks with CPP/NPA/NDF to cover the cost of its activities and that of the
Local Peace Fora during the initial year of operation.

The National Peace Forum shall also identify and submit its budgetary requirements for the
succeeding years for inclusion in the budget submission of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the
Peace Process for Congressional appropriation.

Section 7. Repealing Clause. All other Executive Orders and Issuances inconsistent with this
Order or with any parts thereof are hereby rescinded or modified accordingly.

Section 8. Effectivity. This Order shall take effect immediately.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 21st day of June, in the Year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 116

INCREASING THE SUBSISTENCE ALLOWANCE OF ALL OFFICERS AND ENLISTED
PERSONNEL OF THE BUREAU OF JAIL MANAGEMENT AND PENOLOGY (BJMP)

AND THE BUREAU OF FIRE PROTECTION (BFP)

WHEREAS, Section 71 of R.A. 6975, the Act creating the Bureau of Jail Management and
Penology(BJMP) and the Bureau of Fire Protection(BFP), provides that all uniformed members of
the BJMP and the BFP shall continue to enjoy the subsistence allowance, quarter allowance, clothing
allowance, cost of living allowance, hazard pay, and all other allowances as provided by existing law;

WHEREAS, due to the inflationary increase in the cost of basic commodities and food stuff,
the current subsistence allowance of Thirty Pesos (P30.00) per day is deemed already inadequate to
address the food and nutritional requirements appropriate for BJMP and BFP officers and men;

WHEREAS, Executive Order No. 18, dated August 25, 1998, has increased the subsistence
allowance of the officers and men of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to Sixty Pesos (P60.00) per
day effective September 1, 1998;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by the Constitution and existing laws, do hereby
order:

Section 1. The subsistence allowance for all officers and enlisted personnel of the Bureau of Jail
Management and Penology! BJMP) and the Bureau of Fire Protection(BFP) is hereby increased from
Thirty Pesos (P30.00) to Sixty Pesos (P60.00) per day effective January 1, 1999.

Section 2. Funds needed to implement this Executive Order in CY 1999 shall be supported
from the lump-sum appropriation of the Miscellaneous Personnel Benefits Program as authorized in
R.A. 8745, the CY1999 General Appropriations Act. Thereafter, necessary funds shall be incorporated
in the annual regular appropriations of the said Bureaus under the Department of Interior and Local
Government.

Section 3. The Secretary of Interior and Local Government shall issue such implementing
instructions as may be necessary and proper to carry out the intent of this Executive Order.

Section 4. All rules and regulations and other issuances or part thereof that are in conflict with
this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly;

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 05 th day of JULY, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 117

RECONSTITUTING THE BIPARTISAN EXECUTIVE-LEGISLATIVE
ADVISORY COUNCIL ON THE SABAH ISSUE

WHEREAS, the Bipartisan Executive-Legislative Advisory Council on the Sabah issue was
constituted on January 11, 1993 by virtue of Executive Order No. 46;

WHEREAS, the council was composed of the duly designated representatives from the Executive
Branch as well as members of the Senate and House of Representatives;

WHEREAS, the national elections held in May 1998 resulted in a change of membership in both
the executive and legislative branches of the government;

WHEREAS, attendant complications and ramifications as well as other issues related to the Sabah
claim need urgent consideration and action.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. The Council. There is hereby reconstituted the Bipartisan Executive-Legislative
Advisory Council on the Sabah issue, hereinafter referred to as the Council, composed of the following:
eight (8) representatives from the Executive Branch to be designated by the President, eight (8)
members of the Senate which shall include a member of the minority party, to be designated by the
Senate President and eight (8) members of the House of Representatives which shall include a member
of the minority party, to be designated by the Speaker of the House.

The President shall designate the Chairman of the Council.

SEC. 2. Functions. The Council shall serve as an advisory body to the President with respect to
the Philippine claim on Sabah. It shall have the following functions:

a. Formulate and recommend alternative modes of pursuing the Sabah claim in the appropriate
international and regional fora;

b. Advise the President on the manner in which the Philippine claim on Sabah may be successfully
pursued taking into consideration the requirements of regional harmony and cooperation; and

c. Advise the President on the attendant complications and ramifications as well as other issues
related to the Sabah claim, including the request of the heirs of the Sultan of Sulu for an
increase in cession monies.

SEC. 3. Meetings of the Council. The President shall call the initial meeting of the Council.
Thereafter, the Council shall meet as often as agreed upon by the body or as may be convened by the
President.

SEC. 4. Secretariat. The Council shall organize its Secretariat to be headed by an Executive
Director who shall be the current Head of the Sabah Office of the Department of Foreign Affairs.

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The members of the Secretariat which shall be composed of persons designated by the Chairman and
those detailed to the Council shall provide administrative staff support to the Committee.

SEC. 5. Office. The Council shall hold office in the Department of Foreign Affairs which shall
provide the former with appropriate office space and facilities.

SEC. 6. Appropriations. Appropriations for the Council shall be incorporated in the budget
proposals under the Department of Foreign Affairs.

SEC. 7. Effectivity. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 05 th day of JULY, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred and
ninety nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). / Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 118

PROVIDING FOR THE CREATION OF A NATIONAL COMMITTEE ON
THE CULTURE OF PEACE

WHEREAS, the Philippines is a signatory to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and
Cultural Organization (UNESCO) constitution on 21 November 1946 which mandates to build lasting
peace founded on the intellectual and moral solidarity of humankind;

WHEREAS, the year 2000 has been proclaimed by the United Nations as the International Year
for the Culture of Peace;

WHEREAS, the Philippines has staunchly supported the Culture of Peace Programme
of UNESCO and has hosted several meetings and fora on the Culture of Peace and also created a
government agency responsible for overall management of the comprehensive peace process;

WHEREAS, the establishment of the National Committee on the Culture of Peace (NCCP) will
reaffirm and strengthen Philippine support for the UNESCO Culture of Peace Programme, signify the
country’s firm resolve to participate in the promotion of global understanding and to attain a genuine
culture of peace;

WHEREAS, the creation of the NCCP is envisioned to enhance and complement culture of peace
programs in the Philippines and will make a direct contribution to the building, of a culture of peace
based on respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, the rejection of violence and all forms of
discrimination, and adherence to the principles of justice and solidarity, tolerance, and understanding;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Creation of the National Committee on the Culture of Peace. There is hereby
created the National Committee on the Culture of Peace, hereinafter referred to as the NCCP.

SEC. 2. Composition. The NCCP shall be composed of the following agencies, through their duly
designated representatives, not lower than the rank of Assistant Secretary or Executive Director:

Department of Foreign Affairs

Chairperson

Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process

Member

Department of Interior and Local Government

Member

Department of Education, Culture and Sports

Member

Department of Labor and Employment

Member

Department of Social Welfare and Development

Member

Commission on Human Rights

Member

Commission on Higher Education

Member

National Anti-Poverty Commission

Member

National Commission on Indigenous Peoples

Member

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Social and Human Sciences Committee of the UNESCO Member

National Commission of the Philippines

Communication Committee of the Member

UNESCO National Commission of the Philippines

Culture Committee of the UNESCO Member

National Commission of the Philippines

The Committee may invite, if necessary, representatives of other Philippine Government agencies,
the private sector, the academe, the NGOs, the media, and such other specialized groups to participate
and assist in the formulation and in the implementation of its programs and activities.

The Committee may create sub-committees or working groups to carry out its work.

SEC. 3. Duties and Functions. The NCCP will have the following duties and functions:

Prepare the Philippine Programme of Action for the celebration of the Year 2000 as the
International Year for the Culture of Peace and launch a campaign for the promotion of the
International Year for the Culture of Peace.

2. Lead in implementing UNESCO activities for a culture of peace and develop and provide
support for national and subregional culture of peace programmes with the active participation
of UNESCO clubs, NGOs, GOs and Associated Schools Project (ASP) networks, and other
groups, and coordinate UNESCO’s activities for a culture of peace with those of the UN system
and other agencies;

3. Establish, support and promote initiatives for a culture of peace in the country, especially
in areas or regions where conflict threatens to occur, has occurred or is in the process of
being resolved;

4. Formulate a comprehensive long-term plan, undertake research, and disseminate information
about the culture of peace;

5. Regularly monitor and evaluate activities undertaken within the framework of the Culture of
Peace Programmes of Action; and

6. Carry out such other actions as may be necessary to fulfill its vision and objective, and
implement its duties and functions.

SEC. 4. Administrative Support. The Secretariat of the UNESCO National Commission of the
Philippines (UNACOM) shall serve as the NCCP Secretariat. As such, it shall provide administrative
support to the NCCP to enable it to discharge its duties and functions.

SEC. 5. Funding. The UNACOM, subject to applicable budgeting, accounting, and auditing
regulations, shall provide the NCCP and its Secretariat, the necessary budgetary outlay.

SEC. 6. Effectivity. This order shall take effect immediately.

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Done in the City of Manila, this 05 th day of JULY, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred and
ninety nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 119
ADOPTION OF THE NATIONAL BOOK POLICY

WHEREAS, the Government, through the enactment of Republic Act (R.A.) No. 8047, otherwise
known as the “Book Publishing Industry Development Act”, recognizes the significant role of the book
publishing industry in national development;

WHEREAS, R.A. No. 8047 has lodged on the National Book Development Board (NBDB) the
responsibility to formulate, adopt and implement a National Book Policy which will serve as the
industry’s major source of direction and guidelines as well as the Government’s concrete response to its
commitment to develop the book publishing in the country;

WHEREAS, the newly developed National Book Policy will be of optimum benefit to the
Government and the Filipino people as it embodies the specific measures which will serve as the
enduring basis for fostering the viability and progressive growth of the book publishing industry;

WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 5 of R.A. No. 8047, and in order to ensure effective, sustained
and successful programs of the Government towards the growth and development of the book
publishing industry, it is imperative that the policies embodied in the National Book Policy be
institutionalized and implemented to provide the adequate supply of affordable quality-produced
books not only for domestic but also for export market;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the power vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. The Promulgation and Adoption of the National Book Policy. The policy and
provisions embraced in the National Book Policy, unless otherwise contrary to law, shall be the
policy of the State pertaining to the book publishing industry. Hence, the NBDB, in coordination and
cooperation with the other concerned agencies, shall adopt and implement the policies embodied
therein, provided that, with regards to the procurement of textbooks, applicable laws and/or issuances
on public bidding shall be observed.

SEC. 2. Access to Information/Data Given to the NBDB for the Establishment and Maintenance
of Industry Databank. The NBDB shall be given access to information as in the conduct researches
and to soliciting necessary data from the private and public sectors pertaining to the book industry,
except those confidential which may prejudice the operations as well as the trade secrets of the entity/
agency concerned. NBDB shall maintain and update the book industry databank which will make data
accessible to the industry and to the public.

SEC. 3. Persons and Entities Covered by this Order. All government sectors, particularly the
Department of Education, Culture and Sports, the Commission on Higher Education, the Technical
Educational and Skills Development Agency, the Department of Interior and Local Government, the
Department of Trade and Industry, the Board of Investments, the Department of Finance, the Bureau
of Customs and private sector/stakeholders comprising of, but not limited to: book publishers, printers,
book sellers, and book authors shall abide and comply with this order.

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SEC. 4. Administrative Liability. Any violation of this Executive Order by any person, officer or
entity mentioned in the next preceding section shall be held administratively accountable as provided
in R.A. No. 8047 and other pertinent laws.

SEC. 5. Effectivity. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately after its publication in a
newspaper of general circulation or the official gazette.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 4 th day of JULY, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred and
ninety-nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 120

MANDATING THE STREAMLINING OF THE DEVELOPMENT ACADEMY

OF THE PHILIPPINES

WHEREAS, the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) was created by Presidential
Decree No. 205 dated June 7, 1973, as amended, for the primary purpose of fostering and supporting
the development forces at work in the nation’s economy through, among other things, the development
and conduct of selective human resources development programs;

WHEREAS, the DAP, owing to financial difficulties, has come up with a plan which would
streamline its organization, as well as generate enough revenues for the year 1999 and onwards;

WHEREAS, the DAP Board of Trustees, per Referendum No. 01 dated December 14, 1998,
approved the DAP’s streamlining plan which effectively reduced and merged several offices/centers
within the Academy, as well as reduced its manpower complement from 904 to 730 for co-terminus
positions and 323 to 244 permanent plantilla positions;

WHEREAS, Section 29, Chapter 5, Book V of Executive Order No. 292, otherwise known as
the Administrative Code of 1987, authorizes government agencies to reduce its workforce whenever it
becomes necessary because of lack of funds so as to sustain its operations; and

WHEREAS, consistent with Sections 77, 78 and 79, General Provisions of Republic Act
No. 8745, otherwise known as the General Appropriations Act of 1999, the President of the Philippines
is authorized to direct the reorganization of any department or agency and/or the scaling down or
phasing out of its activities, as may be necessary;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order the streamlining of the DAP,
as follows:

Section 1. Objectives. The streamlining of the DAP shall be undertaken in order to:

a. Support its strategic thrusts, vision, and mission in fulfillment of its mandate as specified in
Presidential Decree No. 205;

b. Attain optimum efficiency by minimizing organizational levels, reducing span of control,
combining common functions, abolishing redundant positions avoiding duplication, and
maximizing resource utilization, but with minimum disruption to operations;

c. Improve its operations which would enable it to be more effective as a support development
institution to government; and

d. Sustain itself to be financially viable corporation in 1999 and beyond.

Sec. 2. Refocusing of Operations. In the light of the DAP’s mandate/purpose as stipulated in
Section 1 of Presidential Decree No. 205, it shall refocus its operations to effectively respond to the

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priority thrusts and programs of the government and the requirements and needs of DAP clients in
government and private sector, as well as institutional agencies.

Sec. 3. Organization and Staffing Modification. On the basis of its refocused thrusts, the DAP
shall realign operations, reorganize or modify its structure to come up with a more responsive, effective
and efficient organization to fulfill and implement its mandate, mission, vision, thrust, programs
and projects as development support institution. The DAP shall, likewise, realign its positions or
staffing pattern to conform with the new structure. Within the context of the recommendation of
the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), the DAP is authorized to have a total of 244
permanent plantilla positions and 730 co-terminus positions. The DAP restructuring and staffing
modification shall be subject to the approval of the DBM.

Sec. 4. Retirement Assistance Package. To pave the way for streamlining, a Retirement Assistance
Package (RAP) shall be provided to those whose positions will be phased-out or declared redundant
and those who may be asked or want to voluntarily retire or separate from the service under Republic
Act Nos. 1616, 8291 or other existing retirement modes mandated by existing laws.

Sec. 5. Funding. A funding assistance will be provided by the National Government to DAP for
the purpose of RAP. The fund shall be taken from the Miscellaneous Personnel Benefits Fund of the
1999 General Appropriations Act. To achieve programming of the fund, the release of the financial
assistance shall be on reimbursement scheme and only after the DBM shall have approved the DAP’s
streamlining.

Sec. 6. Reporting Requirement and Timetable. In fulfillment of the above provisions, the DAP
shall submit its compliance to the President through the DBM within ninety (90) days from the date of
the effectivity of this Executive Order.

Sec. 7. Effectivity. This Order shall take effect one day after its publication in a newspaper of
national circulation.

Done in the City of Manila, this 14™ day of July, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred and
Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 121

DECLARING AND DELINEATING THE CULASI (CAPIZ) PORT UNDER THE
ADMINISTRATIVE JURISDICTION OF THE PHILIPPINE PORTS AUTHORITY

WHEREAS, the Port of Culasi (Capiz) is one of the major and busiest ports in the country;
WHEREAS, there is a need to expand the Port of Culasi (Capiz) for planning purposes to
accommodate projected increases in port traffic and to program the development of the necessary port
facilities to support the demands of the shipping trade within the region;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines by virtue of
the power vested in me by law, do hereby order;

SECTION 1. The territorial jurisdiction of the Port of Culasi (Capiz) is hereby expanded and
particularly described as follows:

“Beginning at point marked 1 on the plan at a distance of 281.81m with bearing a 87°58’ W
from BBM No. 3 (Capiz Cad.), thence to point 2 at a distance of 4.00m with bearing S 19°10’ W,
thence to point 3 at a distance of 755.00m with bearing S 70°27’ E, thence to point 4 at a
distance of 457.00m with bearing S 19°13’ W, thence to point 5 at a distance of 1,083.00m with
bearing N 72°47’ W, thence to point 6 at a distance of 477.00m with bearing N 27°00’ E, thence
to point 7 at a distance of 37.65m with bearing N 44°15’ E, thence to point 1, the point of
beginning at a distance of 246.84.00m with bearing S 69°58’E, all in all comprising a total area of
502,469.95 sq.m, more or less.”

SEC. 2. The Culasi (Capiz) Port Zone, as expanded, is hereby placed under the administrative
jurisdiction of the Philippine Ports Authority, which shall, consistent with the regional industrial plans
of the Government, implement a program for the proper zoning, planning, development and utilization
of the port.

SEC. 3. All other orders, proclamations and issuances or portions thereof which are inconsistent
with this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

SEC. 4. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 17th day of July, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred and
ninety nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 122

CREATING THE PHILIPPINE INTERNATIONAL FILM AND TELEVISION OFFICE

WHEREAS, it is government policy to maximize the country’s comparative advantage as location
site for international movie and television making to generate income, promote tourism, and enhance
the image of the country abroad;

WHEREAS, enhancing linkages and collaboration with foreign film producers and film bodies
will also facilitate the promotion of locally produced films in global festivals and markets; and,

WHEREAS, to encourage foreign movie and television makers to produce their films in the
country, it is expedient to integrate, simplify and streamline the requirements for foreign producers
interested in doing location shooting in the country.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Creation of a Philippine International Film and Television Office and its Executive
Committee . There is hereby created a Philippine International Film and Television Office (hereinafter
referred to as the “Office”), under the Office of the President, to be headed by an Executive Director.
The Office shall be under the administrative and technical supervision of an Executive Committee
(hereinafter referred to as the “Committee”) to be composed of a Chairman; a Vice-Chairman; the
Executive Director of the Office; and representatives from the following agencies:

1. Department of Tourism

2. Department of Foreign Affairs

3. Department of Trade and Industry

4. Department of Interior and Local Government

5. Department of Education, Culture and Sports

6. Department of National Defense

7. National Commission for Culture and the Arts

8. Bureau of Customs

9. Bureau of Internal Revenue

10. Bureau of Immigration

11. Movie and Television Review and Classification Board

12. Film Development Foundation of the Philippines

13. Film Academy of the Philippines

14. Private sector representatives, one each from the movie and television industries

The Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Committee and the Executive Director of the Office
shall be appointed by the President for a term of four years, without prejudice to one reappointment.

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The private sector representatives shall likewise be appointed by the President upon the
recommendation of the Chairman of the Committee.

Sec. 2. Functions . The Philippine International Film and Television Office shall facilitate the
institutionalization of a One-Stop-Shop System for Foreign Film Production. It shall also undertake the
following:

1 facilitate the promotion and marketing of the Philippines as location site for the production of
international films and television programs;

2. formulate an incentive package for foreign film companies interested in shooting films in the
country;

3. register and accredit foreign film and television companies, producers, film makers and artists
interested in doing motion pictures or film and television on-location production in the
Philippines;

4. assist foreign film companies in processing pertinent documents and various requirements
relative to the production of international films in the country;

5. coordinate with various government agencies in assisting the entry and exit of foreign film
producers, artists and production crew;

6. provide direct link between foreign production companies, producers, filmmakers and artists
with local production manpower services, local artists, bit players and technical crew and
facilities;

7. promote and market locally produced films and television programs to international film and
television markets, in coordination with concerned government and private entities;

8. facilitate the entry of locally-produced films and television productions to various
internationally acclaimed film and television festivals and award giving bodies;

9. utilize the services of tourism attaches abroad, through the Department of Tourism, in the
promotion and marketing of Philippine locations sites/resources and local film production
manpower;

10. prescribe internal and operational systems and procedures for the exercise of its functions and
the performance of its duties and responsibilities, including the organization of a secretariat
for the day to day operation of the Office as well as determination of the staffing pattern with
corresponding duties, qualifications, and functions thereon;

1 1 . promulgate such rules and regulations and exercise such other powers and functions as may be
necessary to carry out effectively its mandate; and,

12. perform such other functions as may be authorized by the President of the Philippines.

Sec. 3. Duties and Functions of the Executive Committee Chairman. The Chairman of the
Committee shall exercise the following duties and functions:

1 . direct and supervise the operations and internal affairs of the Office;

2. establish the organizational structure and the staffing pattern of the secretariat;

3. appoint the administrative and technical personnel;

4. suspend, dismiss or otherwise discipline for cause any employee, and/or approve or disapprove
the appointment, transfer or detail of employees;

5. approve and submit the annual and supplemental budget of the Office; and,

6. perform such other functions as may be authorized by the President.

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Sec. 4. Duties and Responsibilities of the Executive Director . The Executive Director of the Office
shall be the head of the Secretariat. He shall exercise the following duties and responsibilities:

1. execute, implement and enforce the decisions, orders, rules and regulations issued by the
Executive Committee;

2. recommend the appointment of the administrative and subordinate personnel; and,

3. facilitate the preparation of the annual and supplemental budget of the Office and the
Committee.

Sec. 5. Annual Report . The Office shall, within three months after the end of every fiscal year,
submit its annual report to the President.

Sec. 6. Initial Fund . To carry out the provisions of this Executive Order, the release of the initial
sum not exceeding TEN MILLION PESOS (P10,000,000.00) is hereby authorized chargeable against
the Organizational Adjustment Fund under the 1999 GAA (R.A. 8745). Thereafter, the budget of the
Office and the Committee shall be integrated in the annual budget of the Office of the President.

Sec. 7. Effectivity . This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 19™ day of July in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred and
ninety nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

President of the Republic of the Philippines

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1
Presidential Management Staff.

338]. Manila:

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 123

REPEALING EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 103 AND EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 105

WHEREAS, Executive Order (EO) No. 103 s. 1999, as amended by EO No. 106 s. 1999,
establishes the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Food Security (OPAFS) under the Office of the
President;

WHEREAS, EO No. 103, as amended by EO No. 106, placed the supervision of the National
Agriculture and Fishery Council (NAFC) and the National Agri-business Corporation under the
OPAFS, and designed the Presidential Adviser on Food Security as the Chairman of the National Food
Security Council and the OPAFS as the Secretariat;

WHEREAS, EO No. 105 s. 1999 transferred the NAFC from the Department of Agriculture to
the Office of the President;

WHEREAS, EO No. 86 s. 1999 constituted the National Food Security Council with the President
as Chairman, and mandated the organization of a National Secretariat on Food Security to provide
technical and administrative support to the Council;

WHEREAS, there is a need to enhance policy and program coordination between the DA and all
concerned agencies to ensure the success of the government’s agriculture and fisheries modernization
program;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order the following:

SECTION 1. Repeal of EO No. 103 and EO No. 105 . Executive Order No. 103 s. 1999 and
Executive Order No. 105 s. 1999 are hereby repealed. The supervision of the NAFC shall revert to the
Department of Agriculture. The NAFC shall continue to perform its functions pursuant to its mandate.

The National Food Security Council shall be chaired by the President, and the National Secretariat
on Food Security organized pursuant to EO No. 86 shall act as the secretariat.

SECTION 2. Transitory Clause . All planned or ongoing projects of the OPAFS are hereby
transferred to the DA for review and implementation or disposition, as appropriate.

SECTION 3. Repealing Clause . All other executive issuances and Presidential instructions
inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed.

SECTION 4. Effectivity . This Order shall take effect immediately.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 19™ day of July, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 124

ENSURING EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROCESSES AND STRUCTURAL ARRANGEMENTS
IN THE DEPARTMENT OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY

WHEREAS, the Department of Trade and Industry is the primary government agency mandated
to coordinate, promote, facilitate and regulate trade, industry and investments;

WHEREAS, with the inevitable emergence of global trade competition brought about by trade
liberalization policies adopted in international treaties and agreements, to which the Philippines is a
signatory, there is a compelling need to make the country internationally competitive;

WHEREAS, the attainment of a high level of international competitiveness can best be achieved
by strengthening trade and investment policies and promotions, including the implementation of trade-
related aspects of intellectual property rights;

WHEREAS, it is imperative to set-up an effective and streamlined organization in response to the
department’s redefined concerns, program priorities and implementation strategies;

WHEREAS, under Section 77 of the General Provisions of Republic Act No. 8745 (FY 1999)
General Appropriations Act, the President may direct changes in the organization and key positions in
any department, bureau or agency; and

WHEREAS, Section 79 of the General Provisions of Republic Act No. 8745, directs heads of
departments, bureaus and agencies to scale down, phase out or abolish activities no longer essential
in the delivery of public services, and provides that the savings generated from the abolition, phasing
out or scaling down of unnecessary activities may be used by the departments, bureaus, and agencies
concerned for the augmentation of their respective programs, projects and activities.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Functional Focus . In the light of the efforts to improve the implementation of the
mandate of the department, the Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry shall accordingly
effect policy, organization, functional and operational refocusing strategies that will address the
following priority concerns:

1.1 Trade Policy : The need to provide updated and on-going analysis and interpretation of and
trade-related and investment policies taking into account laws and regulations as well as the
country’s WTO and other international, regional or bilateral commitments, and ensure their
implementation and enforcement;

Promotion/Marketing: The need to market the country as an investment site for domestic
as well as foreign direct investors, develop international competitiveness, increase exports/
countertrade and promote domestic trade;

Consumer Advocacy: The need to protect the rights of consumers and to make effective the
system of enforcement/redress of consumers’ rights and grievances;

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1.4 Operations: The need to identify the key niches towards which programs and projects are
designed and implemented; and

Internal Administration and Finance : The need to upgrade the support services within the
DTI in the areas of information technology, budgeting and financial planning, administration
including legal expertise, human resource development, and public relations.

SECTION 2. Organizational and Operation Adjustments in the DTI . To ensure that the above
priority concerns will be effectively undertaken, the Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry
shall review the existing operational processes, systems and set-up, and determine the appropriate
strategies and mechanisms, subject to existing organizational and staffing guidelines and standards. He
is authorized to make operational/structural adjustments in the DTI as and when necessary, to achieve
effectiveness and efficiency in accomplishing its mandate.

SECTION 3. Redeployment of Personnel . As and when necessary, DTI personnel may be
redeployed in accordance with the civil service rules and regulations and without diminution in rank or
compensation of the affected personnel.

SECTION 4. Delegation of Authority . Whenever he deems it necessary, the Secretary may
designate Senior Undersecretaries of the Department as chief operating officers of various units within
the Department. He is also authorized to deputize the Undersecretary concerned with multilateral trade
as special trade negotiator when circumstances warrant.

SECTION 5. Effectivity. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 19™ day of July, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred and
ninety-nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 125

REVITALIZING THE NATIONAL INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL (NITC) AND
THE NATIONAL COMPUTER CENTER (NCC)

WHEREAS, the National Information Technology Plan for the 21 st Century, or IT21 envisions
the Philippines to become a Knowledge Center in Asia by the first decade of the 21st Century;

WHEREAS, to realize this vision there is need to leverage the country’s competitive advantage
and further build on the momentum gained over the past years on harnessing and exploiting the full
potentials of information technology (IT) as a strategic tool and a development strategy for greater
productivity and economic growth;

WHEREAS, there is an urgent need to strengthen the institutional mechanism to effectively
mobilize and coordinate the individual and collective resources and talents of all sectors concerned in
the pursuit of this vision;

WHEREAS, the National Information Technology Council (NITC), created pursuant to Executive
Order No. 190, dated 19 July 1994, and reorganized pursuant to Executive Order No. 469, dated
23 February 1998, as the highest planning and policy advisory body on IT matters, needs a dynamic
and effective executive agency to meet its technical support services requirements in the performance of
its functions;

WHEREAS, the National Computer Center (NCC), which was created pursuant to EO No. 322
(s. 1971), as amended by PD No. 1480 (s. 1987), serves as the technical arm of the NITC;

WHEREAS, EO Nos. 34, 35, and 37, all dated 26 October 1998, provided for the restructuring
of the NCC and redefinition of its powers and functions;

WHEREAS, there is need to revitalize the NCC to enable it to better perform its mandate;

WHEREAS, Section 79 of the General Provisions of the same Act, directs heads of departments,
bureaus, and agencies to scale down, phase out or abolish activities no longer essential in the delivery
of public services, and provides that savings generated from the abolition, phasing out or scaling down
of unnecessary activities may be used by the departments, bureaus and agencies concerned for the
augmentation of their respective programs, projects, and activities;

WHEREAS, pursuant to EO 292 (Administrative Code of 1987), the President shall have
continuing authority to reorganize the administrative structure of the Office of the President;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order the following:

Section 1. Declaration of Policy. It is hereby declared the policy of government in furtherance
of national development, to create the appropriate policy and institutional environment to rationalize

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and accelerate the use, application, and exploitation of IT as a productivity tool and as a development
strategy for modernization and economic development.

Section 2. Lead Institutional Mechanism for IT. The National Information Technology Council
(NITC) shall remain as the government’s highest planning and policy advisory body on IT matters
as provided in EO No. 469 (s. 1998). In the performance of its functions, the NITC can call on its
members and the other departments and agencies of government to provide such support and resources
as may be needed or required. The NITC may organize, on a need basis, sectoral and industry task
forces, consisting of professionals/specialists from IT and other key sectors, disciplines, to assist in
coordinating and overseeing the implementation of IT21 and its successors plans.

Section 3. Functions of the National Computer Center (NCC). The NCC shall provide technical
and professional support to the NITC. Pursuant to EO No. 322 (s. 1971), as amended by PD 1480
(s. 1978), it shall have the following powers and functions:

(1) Undertake, in support of the NITC’s planning and policy advisory functions, a periodic review
of the National Information Technology Plan for the 21 st Century or IT21, in coordination
with appropriate bodies and agencies of government and the private sector, to ensure that the
policy recommendations, strategies, programs and projects under IT21 are constantly updated
and are consistent with national development priorities and requirements;

(2) Promulgate, subject to the approval of the NITC, such policies, programs and projects that will
set the overall strategy and direction to fully harness and exploit IT for economic and social
development, especially in addressing the needs of the poor sectors of the society;

Carry out, in cooperation with industry and other government agencies, focused policy
and technological reviews, studies, as well as research and development (R&D) projects, to
accelerate the development of the local IT and allied industries;

Facilitate the development and implementation of a government information systems plan
(GISP), as approved by the NITC, to accelerate the application of electronic governance in the
country for greater productivity, wider public access to information and faster delivery of basic
services;

(5) Develop and promulgate, subject to the approval of the NITC, minimum standards and
benchmarks for computerization and other IT-related activities in government;

(6) Review and approve proposed Information Systems Plans (ISPs) of national government
agencies, government-owned and controlled corporations, state universities and colleges,
and government financial institutions. Such Plans shall be deemed approve if NCC does not
respond within one (1) month from date of receipt;

(7) Provide, as requested or upon instructions of the President or the NITC, IT consultancy and
other related services to other government agencies, institutions, including government-owned
and controlled corporations and local government units;

(8) Conduct a periodic information systems survey to foster a well coordinated and integrated
development, implementation and management of computer-based information systems and
networks in government;

Assist, as requested, government departments and agencies concerned in the review and design
of IT education and training curricula in the country to ensure a globally competitive human
resource base for the sustainability of the country’s knowledge-based industries, as envisioned
in IT21;

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Develop and implement a continuing national IT promotion program to drum up wider public
awareness and understanding of the national plan and vision, programs, projects and activities;
and

(11) Perform such other functions as may be needed or required.

Section 4. NCC Organizational and Operational Strengthening. The NCC shall be strengthened
to carry out the above mandates and functions effectively. The NCC organizational and operational
strengthening shall be implemented primarily through:

(1) Setting-up of sectoral and industry desks to work in tandem with the sectoral and industry task
forces of the NITC. The sectoral and industry desks shall:

a. Formulate IT policies and programs pertaining to their sector for recommendation to the
NITC;

b. Monitor and analyze key technology trends and developments needed for strategic planning
and industry positioning;

c. Facilitate and provide needed technical support to departments, agencies, or local
government units concerned, in the development and implementation of NITC-approved
flagship projects;

d. Assist government agencies and local government units, as well as selected private sector
entities, in carrying out specific IT projects in support of the government’s computerization
efforts; and

e. Provide technical support to the NITC or its sectoral and industry task forces, as needed.

(2) Instituting an arrangement with the private sector whereby the use of the National Computer
Institute and the Philippine Software Development Institute as training and software
development facilities for IT will be optimized.

Section 5. Modifications of the NCC Organization Structure and Staffing Pattern. The Head
of the NCC shall submit to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) for approval, the
proposed modifications in its organization structure and staffing pattern. The DBM is hereby
authorized to upgrade organization units and create key positions to enable the NCC to effectively
perform its mandate and functions.

Section 6. Redeployment of Personnel. The existing personnel of the NCC shall be redeployed
as may be necessary in accordance with the requirements of the revised reorganization structure and
staffing pattern, subject to civil service rules and regulations. Such redeployment shall, however, not
result in the diminution in rank and compensation of affected personnel.

Section 7. Funding. The Financial resources for implementing the revised staffing pattern of the
NCC and for operating expenses during the first year of its operation under the revitalized setup, as
well as expenses for technical support to the NITC, shall be taken from funds available in the NCC.
Additional funding requirements for the succeeding years may be integrated into the NCC’s annual
appropriations.

Section 8. Implementing Rules and Regulations. The NCC, in consultation with appropriate
bodies and organizations in government and in the private sector, shall, through the NITC, promulgate
the necessary implementing rules and regulations (IRRs) of this Executive Order within three months
from date of issuance; Provided that the said IRR shall be periodically reviewed and updated in close

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consultation with the private sector, taking into account new trends, developments, priorities, and
requirement in IT as may be determined by the NITC.

Section 9. Separability. Any portion or provision of this Executive Order that may be declared
unconstitutional shall not have the effect of nullifying other portions or provisions hereon as long as
such remaining positions can still subsist and be given effect in their entirety.

Section 10. Repealing Clause. Executive Order Nos. 34, 35, and 37, all dated 26 October
1998, are hereby repealed, and all other orders, directives, issuances, rules and regulations or parts
thereof, inconsistent with the provisions of this Executive Order are hereby modified and/or amended
accordingly.

It is understood that NGAs, GOCCs, SUCs, LGUs, and GFIs may hereafter, conduct their
respective IT-related pre-qualification, bid and award functions.

Section 11. Effectivity. This Executive Order shall take effect upon the promulgation of its
Implementing Rules and Regulations.

DONE, in the City of Manila, this 19™ day of July, Nineteen Hundred and Ninety Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 126

FURTHER AMENDING EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 175 DATED APRIL 30, 1994 AS
AMENDED BY EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 223, DATED FEBRUARY 1995, EXECUTIVE
ORDER NO. 229 DATED MARCH 19, 1995, EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 259,

DATED JULY 11, 1995, EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 373 DATED OCTOBER 10, 1996,
EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 447, DATED OCTOBER 2, 1997, AND EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 114
DATED JUNE 28, 1999 WHICH CREATED THE NORTHWESTERN LUZON GROWTH

QUADRANGLE COMMISSION

I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the Philippines, by virtue of the
powers vested in me by law, do hereby further amend Section 2 of Executive Order No. 175 dated
April 30, 1994, as amended by Executive Order No. 223, dated February 1995, Executive Order
No. 229 dated March 19, 1995, Executive Order No. 259, dated July 11, 1995, Executive Order
No. 373 dated October 10, 1996, Executive Order No. 447, dated October 2, 1997, and Executive
Order No. 114 dated June 28, 1999 which created the Northwestern Luzon Growth Quadrangle
Commission, now known as the North Luzon Growth Commission, to read as follows:

“Sec. 2. Executive Committee. There is hereby created an Executive Committee (ExCom)
of the North Luzon Growth Commission, to supervise the day-to-day program operations. The
ExCom shall be composed of not more than one-third (1/3) of the total membership of the fully-
constituted Commission as follows: The Presidential Assistant for North Luzon as Chairman and the
representatives from DTI, NEDA, DA, DOT, DPWH, and DOTC as members to be designated by their
respective department heads. The Executive Director shall serve as the Secretary of the Committee.
Where necessary, action/s undertaken by the ExCom shall be confirmed by the Commission.

The Executive Committee (ExCom) shall have the following functions:

a) Monitor and submit report on the progress of the North Luzon Development Program (NLDP)
and other required reports to the Commission;

b) . Perform such functions as may be delegated by the Commission proper;

c) . Evaluate and refine the North Luzon development plan projects, considering other plans

and inputs of local government units, concerned entities and endorse to the Commission for
approval and adoption;

d) . Evaluate the annual budget of the NLDP and endorse to the Commission for approval;

e) . Prepare an action plan for the utilization of funds (grants, donations, etc.) for the development

of North Luzon;

f) . Initiate the negotiation for development funds to include on the bilateral or multi-lateral basis;

g) . Review and approve the terms of reference (TOR) for conduct of feasibility studies on projects

on North Luzon;

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h) . Review and evaluate the feasibility of various projects identified in North Luzon;

i) . Endorse/present the feasibility studies to the Commission for adoption/final approval;

j) . Evaluate and approved contracts entered into by the PMO and endorse the same to the

Commission for confirmation;

k) . Formulate related policies governing the North Luzon growth area in coordinating and

monitoring all program/project components and recommend to the Commission for approval
and policy recommendations;

l) . Review all progress reports submitted by the PMO and other required reports for submission

to the Commission;

m) . Recommend to the Commission to the organizational set-up, staffing pattern and internal

operating system of the PMO;

n) . Evaluate and endorse to the Commission the annual budget of the PMO; and

o) . Formulate rules, system and procedures and recommend to the Commission for adoption.”

This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 22 nd day of JULY, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999).
Presidential Management Staff.

[Executive Order Nos.:

338]. Manila:

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 127

CONSTITUTING THE COUNCIL FOR EXTENSION, RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT IN

AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES

WHEREAS, it is a declared policy of the State to promote research and development to attain
national development goals;

WHEREAS, the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act of 1997 (RA 8435) mandates the
Department of Agriculture (DA), in coordination with the Department of Science and Technology
(DOST) and other concerned agencies, to enhance, support and consolidate existing national research
and development system in agriculture and fisheries;

WHEREAS, there is a need for an effective mechanism to undertake the integration of all
agriculture and fisheries extension and research and development (R & D) efforts of the government;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Constitution of the Council for Extension, Research and Development . The Council
for Extension, Research and Development in Agriculture and Fisheries, hereinafter referred to as
CERDAF, is hereby constituted.

The CERDAF shall be composed of the following:

a. Secretary of Agriculture

b. Secretary of Science and Technology

c. Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources

d. Secretary of Agrarian Reform

e. Director-General of the National Economic and Development Authority

f. Chairman of the Commission on Higher Education

g. Executive Director of the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry,
Natural Resources Research and Development

h. Executive Director of the Philippine Council for Aquatic and Marine
Research and Development

President of the League of Provinces

j. President of the League of Municipalities

k. National Chairman of the Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management
Council

l. President of the Chamber of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources of the
Philippines

m. Two representatives from the academe

n. One representatives each from a national farmers organization and a
national fisherfolk organization

Chairman

Vice Chairman

Member

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o. One representative each from the crops, livestock and processing sectors Member

p. Three research, development and extension experts Member

The academe shall be represented by heads of national universities specializing in agriculture and
fishery.

The representatives from the academe, farmers and fisherfolk organization, crops, livestock and
processing sectors, and the R & D experts shall be appointed by the Chairman as recommended by the
other members of CERDAF.

SECTION 2. Functions . The CERDAF shall have the following functions:

a. Enhance coordination of government institutions involved in agriculture and fisheries R &C D
and extension, and pursue the integration of R & D and extension efforts of the government;

b. Encourage the participation of the private sector in the development of a national R & D and
extension agenda;

c. Prepare and oversee the implementation of a more comprehensive and responsive R & D and
extension program for agriculture and fisheries to enhance and make full use of the National
Research and Development System in Agriculture and Fisheries (NARDSAF) and the National
Extension System for Agriculture and Fisheries (NESAF), our national network on R & D and
extension, respectively, established under RA 8435;

d. Set policies that will promote agriculture and fishery R & D and extension, and govern
Philippine relation with international institutions involved in R &D;

e. Approve the allocation of funds from local and foreign sources for R & D and extension
programs, projects and activities;

f. Adopt policies to strengthen the institutional efficiency of the national R & D and extension
system, including the setting up of a monitoring and evaluation system on the effectiveness and
efficiency of its various components;

g. Review and approve national R & D and extension plans and programs developed by the
NARDSAF and NESAF;

h. Create committees, technical working groups and commodity items to facilitate the
accomplishment of CERDAF’s objectives; and

Formulate implementing rules and regulations as may be necessary to carry out its functions.

SECTION 3. Secretariat . The Bureau of Agricultural Research and the Agricultural (BAR) and
the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) shall serve as the secretariat of the CERDAF.

The BAR shall provide technical and administrative support for R & D activities of the CERDAF,
while the ATI shall provide assistance on extension and training matters. The specific functions of the
BAR and the ATI shall be in accordance with the implementing rules and regulations of RA 8435.

To upgrade the capabilities of BAR and ATI staff, they shall undertake the following:

a. Develop a staffing pattern, based on the science and technology career system for its technical
personnel to be approved by CERDAF, and thus entitle its staff to a system of benefits
equivalent to those enjoyed by the science and technical personnel of the Department of
Science and Technology;

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b. Draw from state colleges and universities, institutes and centers, scientists, professors, technical
experts, for detail or secondment at BAR and ATI to accelerate the upgrading of their technical
competence; and

c. Provide detailed staff an honoraria system based on the Magna Carta for Science and Technical
Personnel or at least 75 percent of their basic pay at their mother units for those detailed on a
full-time basis.

SECTION 4. Relationship of CERDAF with Other Multi-Sectoral Councils and Other Agencies
under the Department of Agriculture . The CERDAF shall collaborate with the Philippine Council
for Agriculture, Forestry, Natural Resources Research and Development (PCARRD), the Philippine
Council for Aquatic and Marine Research and Development (PCAMRD) and other concerned agencies
and institutions in the following areas:

a. Formulation of R Sc D agenda and programs;

b. Screening of proposals and monitoring of ongoing R & D projects in the country;

c. Development of methodologies and systems for effective R & D planning in agriculture and
fisheries, emphasizing the quality and intensity of participation of farmers, fishers and the
private sector in setting the R & D and extension agenda and the allocation of resources;

d. Development of output-oriented performance standards for staff, institutions and programs in
agriculture and fisheries R & D;

e. Establishment of an efficient and effective computerized system of monitoring and evaluation
of R & D staff and institutions, including database required for the assessment of research
excellence, performance and capacity;

f. Development and administration of a career development program and a unified merit
promotion system for scientific and technical personnel in agriculture and fishery R & D and
extension;

g. Development and administration of an incentive system to support high quality scientific
journals in agriculture and fishery;

h. Development of a human resource maintenance system for providing incentives and benefits
to technical and scientific personnel in agriculture and fishery to ensure that agriculture and
fishery institutions gain and maintain a competitive edge in attracting and maintaining their
staff;

i. Provision of technical assistance in the improvement of institutional and staff capabilities; and

j. Formulation of guidelines in planning and implementation of agriculture and fisheries research.

SECTION 5. Funding . The funds required to operate CERDAF shall be drawn from the
appropriations of the Department of Agriculture.

SECTION 6. Repealing Clause . All other laws, decrees, orders, rules and regulations or parts
thereof inconsistent with the provisions of this Executive Order are hereby repealed or amended
accordingly.

SECTION 7. Effectivity . This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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Done in the City of Manila, this 22 nd day of July, in the Year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred and
Ninety Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANAN PALACE
MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 128

ESTABLISHING THE PRESIDENTIAL COMMISSION FOR THE NEW CENTURY AND THE
MILLENNIUM AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

WHEREAS, the dawning of the new century calls both for a celebration as well as a reflection of
the need to craft strategic goals to meet the growing needs of the population;

WHEREAS, even as the new century unfolds, most of the country still remains backward insofar
as agricultural production methods and practices are concerned thus substantially affecting the
country’s ability to produce enough food for its people, let alone provide livelihood for people in the
countryside;

WHEREAS, with the advent of the millennium and the dawning of 21st century, there is expected
to be a quantum surge of advances in the field of science and technology;

WHEREAS, these advances are expected to have substantial effects on all aspects of human life,
whether in commerce, information, health or the production of basic goods and utilities;

WHEREAS, in the light of these expected advances, there is a need to craft policies and programs
to ensure that the fruits of science and technology shall be fully developed and applied to all priority
programs of this administration;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

Section 1. Presidential Commission on the New Century and the Millennium . A Presidential
Commission on the New Century and the Millenium (hereinafter referred to as the “Commission”) is
hereby established under the Office of the President to be composed as follows:

Secretary of Agriculture

Chairperson

Secretary of Science and Technology

Co-Chairperson

Secretary of Budget and Management

Member

Secretary of Trade and Industry

Member

Secretary of Interior and Local Government

Member

Secretary of Tourism

Member

Press Secretary

Member

Director General of the National Economic Development

Authority

Member

Presidential Adviser on Political Affairs - representing the

Office of the President

Member

Chairman of the Social Security System -

Member

President and CEO, Land Bank of the Philippines

Member

Chairman, National Youth Commission

Member

Two (2) representatives from the Private sector to be

designated by the President

Member

Director General of the Commission -

Ex-Officio Member

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Section 2. Functions of the Commission . The Commission shall be an advisory body to the
President and shall exercise the following functions and responsibilities:

a. Develop and recommend to the President the country’s strategic vision and goals in the next
century on how the country should prepare and adopt expected advances in science and
technology for agriculture and other priority areas;

b. Prepare and recommend to the President the Master Plan on the Millennium and the New
Century, with emphasis on science and technology to advance the country’s agriculture sector;

c. Identify, coordinate and operationalize all related activities necessary to implement the
country’s celebration of the millenium and the above-mentioned master plan; and

d. Accept or receive donations and other conveyances by gratuitous title of funds, materials
and services for the use in the planning, operationalization and management of the country’s
celebration of the millenium and the above-mentioned master plan, subject to the usual
accounting and auditing rules and regulations;

e. Undertake all other measures necessary for the successful implementation of the said master
plan.

Section 3. Committee on the Turn - of - the - Century Celebration . In order to ensure the success
of the country’s celebration of the turn-of-the-century from September to December 31, 1999, and
coordinate the participation of the entire citizenry nationwide, a committee on the turn-of-the-century
celebration is hereby established under the supervision of the Commission, to be composed as follows:

Secretary of Tourism

Chairperson

Secretary of Trade and Industry

Member

Secretary of Interior and Tocal Government

Member

Secretary of Budget and Management

Member

Press Secretary

Member

One (1) representative from the Private Sector designated by
the President as Member of the Commission, and chosen By
the Commission

Member

Director General of the Commission

Member

The Committee is hereby directed to submit its program and plans of action for the turn-of-the-
century celebration, as approved by the Commission within thirty (30) days from the effectivity of this
order.

Section 4. Report to the President . Relative to the performance of its mandated functions, the
Commission shall submit its report to the President within sixty (60) days from the effectivity of this
order.

Section 5. Cessation of the Commission. The Commission shall cease to exist on 31 December

2000.

Section 6. Director General. The President shall designate a Director General for the Commission.
The Director General shall act as the Chief Operations Officer of the Commission, perform and
manage all aspects of the Commission’s operations and other functions and duties as may be assigned
to him by the Commission.

Section 7. Secretariat. A Secretariat for the Commission shall be organized under the direct
supervision of the Director General.

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The Secretariat shall have such number of personnel as may be necessary for the efficient and
effective performance of its functions. All agencies of the government represented in the commission
shall assign or detail an employee each to form the Secretariat. The Commission shall provide the
Director General and the members of the commission with such honoraria or allowances as may
be allowed by law and at rates consistent with those prescribed pursuant to existing laws, rules and
regulations.

Section 8. Funding. An amount of Fifteen Million Pesos (P15,000,000.00) to be sourced from
the President’s Contingent Fund to fund the maintenance and other operating expenses, and other
related activities of the Commission. For activities related to the turn of the century nationwide, the
Commission shall submit to the President within sixty (60) days from the effectivity of this order its
recommendations on possible sources of funds and on how to tap the private sector as well.

Section 9. Repealing Clause. All orders, issuances or part thereof which are inconsistent with the
provisions of this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

Section 10. Effectivity. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE, in the City of Manila, this 23 rd day of July 1999 in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 129

CREATING AN INTER-AGENCY COORDINATING COMMITTEE TO PREPARE
AND COORDINATE IMPLEMENTATION OF A LAND ADMINISTRATION
AND MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

WHEREAS, the rational administration and management of the country’s land resources are vital
to the optimum allocation and utilization thereof as resources of sustainable economic development;

WHEREAS, there is a recognition of the constraints that hamper the effective allocation and
utilization of the country’s land resources;

WHEREAS, prudent land management and administration is vital in fighting poverty, promoting
economic growth and managing resources sustainability;

WHEREAS, it is necessary that the efforts of different government agencies be coordinated
and consolidated in one body in order to address the problems associated with management and
administration of the country’s land resources;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. There is hereby created an inter-agency coordinating committee (IACC) to prepare
and coordinate implementation of a land administration and management program (LAMP) to be
composed of:

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources

(DENR)

• Land Management Bureau

• Forest Management Bureau

• Mines and GeoSciences Bureau

• Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau

• Environmental Management Bureau

• Ecosystems Research and Management Bureau

• National Mapping and Resources Information Authority

2. The Department of Justice (DOJ)

• Land Registration Authority

• Commission on the Settlement of Land Problems

3. The Department of Budget and Management (DBM)-

4. The Department of Finance (DOF)

• Bureau of Local Government Finance

• Bureau of Internal Revenue

5. The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR)

6. The Department of Agriculture (DA)

• Bureau of Soil and Water Management

7. The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)

Chairman

Vice-Chairman

Member

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8. The National Economic and Development Authority

(NEDA) Member

9. The Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council

(HUDCC) Member

• Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board

• National Housing Authority

10. The Public Estates Authority (PEA) Member

1 1 . The League of Cities Member

12. The League of Provinces Member

13. The League of Municipalities Member

The afore-named members shall be represented by at least an Undersecretary with respect to the
Departments and the head of agency with respect to the bureaus and agencies concerned.

SEC. 2. The IACC-LAMP shall have the following functions and duties:

1 Coordinate and monitor all government actions and responses on management and
administration of land resources with respect to the preparation and implementation of a long
term program of action on land management and administration;

2. Identify specific issues relating to management and administration of the said lands and
formulate policies, recommendations and plans of actions to address the same;

3. Coordinate with other government agencies in providing immediate action to problems
brought to their attention;

4. Report to the President the actions taken to address specific issues on the management and
administration of the country’s land resources;

5. Create working groups as may be deemed necessary and call on representatives from other
sectors to tackle specific issues; and

6. Prepare and adopt implementing/operating guidelines as may be necessary to ensure smooth
operations of the committee and implementation of this Executive Order.

7. Perform such other functions and duties as may be necessary to achieve the objective of the
committee.

SEC. 3. The Committee shall be provided with an initial budget of Twenty Million Pesos
(P20,000,000.00), or such amount as may be allotted and approved by the President, upon the
recommendation of the Committee Chairman, subject to the usual accounting and auditing
requirements. Appropriation for the succeeding years shall be incorporated in the budget proposals of
the Office of the President.

SEC. 4. An IACC Secretariat, to provide administrative and technical support to the Committee,
shall be created at the Land Management Bureau to be headed by its director.

SEC. 5. The Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 24 th day of JULY, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 130

DIRECTING THE DEPARTMENT OF BUDGET AND MANAGEMENT TO ALLOCATE AND
PRIORITIZE THE RELEASE OF FUNDS FOR PRE-CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES OF
OFFICIAL DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE PROJECTS

WHEREAS, the National Government has approved the Medium-Term Philippine Development
Plan (1998-2004), which includes priority development projects which will be proposed for
international assistance;

WHEREAS, international donor agencies, on numerous occasions and consultations, have
expressed continuing and serious concerns over the lack of preparedness and slow start of pipeline and
committed projects because of the insufficiency of funds for feasibility studies, environmental studies,
engineering designs, right-of-way acquisition, pre-construction activities, and current operating expense
of project offices;

WHEREAS, these conditions hamper the absorptive capacity of the national government, hinder
the completion of foreign-assisted projects within their respective disbursement schedules in loan
agreements, and constrain the national government’s accelerated availment and optimal utilization of
Official Development Assistance;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Allocation and Early Release of Funds for Pre-Construction Activities of Official
Development Assistance Projects . The Department of Budget and Management is hereby directed to
undertake the following:

a. Include and set aside in the annual budgets of national line agencies a special fund for
feasibility studies, environmental studies, and engineering designs, which shall be requested by
line agencies in preparing pipeline projects proposed for Official Development Assistance;

b. Release to the concerned agencies and offices the peso counterpart budget of foreign-assisted
projects which have been approved for financing and implementation by the National
Economic and Development Authority-Investment Coordination Committee for purposes of
right-of way acquisition, pre-construction and current operating expenses of foreign-assisted
project offices;

c. Require government agencies to provide necessary budget components for feasibility studies,
environmental studies, engineering designs, right-of-way acquisition, pre-construction activities
and current operating expenses of project offices in their budget proposal for new projects,
unless the affected government agency explains in writing that the studies or expenses are not
needed or have separate sources of funding; and

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d. Monitor and coordinate other subsequent activities with the national line agencies and the
Development Budget Coordinating Committee towards the effective implementation of the
Executive Order.

SECTION 2. Effectivity . This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

Done in the City of Manila this 26 th day of July, in the Year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred and
Ninety Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 131

ADJUSTING THE DIVIDEND RATES OF SELECTED GOVERNMENT-OWNED
AND/OR CONTROLLED CORPORATIONS ON THEIR 1998 NET EARNINGS PURSUANT TO

SECTION 5 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7656

WHEREAS, Section 1 of Republic Act (RA) No. 7656 provides that:

“Section 1. Declaration of Policy. - It is hereby declared the policy of the State that in order

for the National Government to realize additional revenues, government-owned and/or controlled

corporations, without impairing their viability and the purposes for which they have been

established, shall share a substantial amount of their net earnings to the National Government.”

WHEREAS, the Secretary of Finance recommended, pursuant to Section 5 of RA No. 7656,
the adjustment on the percentage of annual net earnings that shall be declared by the Land Bank of
the Philippines and the Development Bank of the Philippines in the interest of national economy and
general welfare.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. The percentage of net earnings to be declared and remitted by the Land Bank of the
Philippines and the Development Bank of the Philippines as dividends to the National Government, as
provided for under Section 3 of Republic Act 7656, is adjusted from at least fifty percent (50%) to the
rates specified hereunder:

1. Land Bank of the Philippines 6% (cash)

2. Development of the Philippines 30% (cash)

SECTION 2. The adjusted dividend rates provided for under Section 1 shall only be applicable
on 1998 net earnings of the concerned government-owned and/or controlled corporations.

SECTION 3. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 27 th day of July, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office

Presidential

of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 132

STRENGTHENING THE CABINET COMMITTEE ON MARITIME AND OCEAN AFFAIRS AND
ITS SUPPORTING MECHANISMS, ESTABLISHING ITS TECHNICAL COMMITTEE, AND FOR

OTHER PURPOSES

WHEREAS, the integrated and coordinated administration of the seas and oceans including the
delimitation and protection of territorial and maritime jurisdiction of the country is paramount to the
national interest and development of the Philippines as an archipelago;

WHEREAS, Article XII, Section 2 of the 1987 Constitution provides that the State shall protect
the nation’s marine wealth in its archipelagic waters, territorial sea, and exclusive economic zone, and
reserve its use and enjoyment exclusively to Filipino citizens;

WHEREAS, Article II, Section 16 of the same Constitution provides that the State shall protect
and advance the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and
harmony of nature;

WHEREAS, Article XIII, Section 7 of the same Constitution provides that the State shall
protect the rights of subsistence fishermen, especially of local communities, to the preferential use
of the communal marine and fishing resources, both inland and offshore; provide support to such
fishermen through appropriate technology and research, adequate financial, production, and marketing
assistance, and other services; protect, develop, and conserve such resources, such protection to extend
to offshore fishing grounds of subsistence fishermen against foreign intrusion;

WHEREAS, the Philippines is a signatory or a party to many international agreements on the seas
and oceans, principally the United Nations Law of the Sea Convention which entered into force on
November 16, 1994, as well as non-binding instruments such as the Rio Declaration and Agenda 21;

WHEREAS, the seas and oceans have in recent history continually increased in importance as the
primary source of food, minerals, petroleum and ocean energy, and other resources, as well as the focus
of many economic uses such as transportation and tourism;

WHEREAS, as a result of these many benefits and uses, the seas and oceans are beset with serious
challenges such as the degradation of coastal and marine resources, loss of bio-diversity and habitat
destruction, pollution, improper waste disposal and heightened risks from natural and man-made
disasters due to imminent environmental degradation;

WHEREAS, the above conditions exist in the immediate environment and surrounding areas
of the archipelago necessitating greater need for information exchange and coordination among
concerned sectors of the country for the efficient administration and effective exercise of jurisdiction of
the Government;

WHEREAS, the Philippines is committed to the principle of sustainable development as one of
the major pillars of its economic development plans;

WHEREAS, the National Marine Policy (NMP) adopted on November 8, 1994 was an initial
effort to create a framework for integrated and coordinated ocean management, and requires periodic
evaluation and refinement in the light of national and international developments;

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WHEREAS, there is a need to strengthen the mandate of the Cabinet Committee on Maritime
and Ocean Affairs created under Executive Order No. 186, Series of 1994, and to provide it with
the appropriate structure, composition, and supporting mechanisms to respond to the demands of
the administration and management of the seas and oceans especially those within the territorial and
maritime jurisdiction of the Philippines.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested upon me by law, do hereby order:

Section 1. Declaration of Principles.- The following are hereby declared to be among the main
principles to guide the Government in maritime and ocean affairs, and in the conduct of its foreign
policy:

a. In responding to the many challenges and opportunities presented by the archipelagic
nature of the country, decisions and actions with respect to national and international maritime
and ocean affairs shall be in accordance with a national maritime policy.

b. In the pursuit of sustainable development, the interactions of the terrestrial and marine
resource uses in an archipelagic setting shall be recognized, and used as the basis for encouraging
all resource users to mutually support and reinforce each other.

c. In consideration of international trends and developments in the management of the
maritime and ocean sectors, utmost priority shall be given to the development and enhancement
of the country’s capabilities to control, utilize, protect, manage, and conserve its marine resources.

Sec. 2. The Cabinet Committee on Maritime and Ocean Affairs.- The Cabinet Committee on
Maritime and Ocean Affairs (hereinafter referred to as “CABCOM-MOA”) is hereby composed of the
following:

Secretary of Foreign Affairs
Executive Secretary

Director-General of the National Security Council

Secretary of National Defense

Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources

Secretary of Agriculture

Secretary of Socio-Economic Planning

Secretary of Science and Technology

Secretary of Transportation and Communications

Secretary of Energy

Secretary of Trade and Industry

Secretary of Justice

Secretary of Finance

Secretary of Budget and Management

Secretary of Interior and Local Government

Secretary of Labor and Employment

Secretary of Tourism

Chairman

Member

The CABCOM-MOA, through the Chairman, may recommend to the President the appointment
of additional members drawn from the Cabinet as may be necessary.

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Sec. 3. Functions of the CABCOM-MOA.- The CABCOM-MOA shall have the following
functions:

a. To formulate and recommend a national maritime policy to the President;

b. To coordinate the implementation of such policy and periodically evaluate and refine it as
necessary;

c. To identify and develop policy options in implementing international agreements on the
oceans, as well as non-binding instruments, to which the Philippines is a party or signatory;

d. To recommend policies, programs, and special projects necessary to advance the national
interest and fulfill international commitments relative to the sustainable use of ocean resources
and marine environmental protection;

e. To formulate and recommend programs, and special projects to enhance the integrated and
coordinated management of the maritime and oceans interests of the Philippines, particularly in:

(1) the protection of the archipelago, including the defense of the national territory, and
the development of national capabilities to protect its marine resources;

(2) the protection, conservation, and preservation of the marine environment and
ocean resources through the proper management of human activities within its maritime
jurisdiction;

(3) the development and promotion of Philippine interests in shipping, seafaring, fishing,
extraction of mineral and energy resources, and other ocean-based industries.

f. To formulate programs, coordinate and/or undertake activities to promote the archipelagic
consciousness in the country especially among the coastal communities.

The CABCOM-MOA shall meet quarterly, or as the need arises. It may constitute itself into such
Sub-committees as may be necessary to respond to special and specific issues or problems, and, to this
end, formulate such rules of procedure as may be necessary to perform its functions. The CABCOM-
MOA shall submit a quarterly report of its activities to the President.

Sec. 4. CABCOM-MOA Technical Committee.- There is hereby created a Technical Committee
(hereafter referred to as “TechCom”), consisting of representatives of each of the Members of the
CABCOM-MOA.

The TechCom shall have the following functions:

(1) to oversee the implementation of the decisions and policies set by the CABCOM-MOA;

(2) to formulate and recommend decision, policies, projects and programs with respect
to the maritime and ocean affairs of the country, for consideration by the CABCOM-
MOA;

(3) to coordinate the activities of all the concerned agencies in the implementation of
international agreements on the maritime and ocean affairs, as well as non-binding
instruments, to which the Philippines is a party or signatory;

(4) to formulate and recommend positions and strategies for maritime boundary
delimitation, as well as fisheries and maritime disputes settlement and other international
maritime and ocean agreements.

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The Chairman may also call on specialists and representatives of the academe, private sector, non-
government organizations, and such other government offices or agencies as may be necessary, to assist
the CABCOM-MOA in policy and decision making.

Sec. 5. Maritime and Ocean Affairs Center.- The Law of the Sea Secretariat created under
Executive Order No. 738, Series of 1981, and designated as an attached agency of the Department of
Foreign Affairs, pursuant to Section 19, Chapter 6, Title I, Book IV of the Revised Administrative Code
of 1987, is hereby renamed, reconstituted and established as the “Maritime and Ocean Affairs Center”
hereinafter referred to as the “Center”, with the following expanded functions and responsibilities:

a. Act as the secretariat to the CABCOM-MOA, and provide assistance and administrative
support to the Chairman in the management of the CABCOM-MOA and its TechCom;

b. Assist in the development of national capabilities and human resources for maritime and
ocean affairs;

c. Undertake, or cause to be undertaken, any of the following:

(1) consultations with the TechCom or any of its members, any government agency,
concerned maritime and ocean sectors, non-government organizations, academe, and/or the
general public, on any maritime-related matters as may be deemed necessary;

(2) research programs and policy studies on any and/or all maritime sectors as may be
needed by the CABCOM-MOA, including those for regulatory, governmental, strategic, or
security purposes;

(3) research, data gathering, information acquisition, and preparations for any
negotiation or other modes of dispute settlement with other countries in matters concerning
the overlapping of maritime boundaries, fisheries, energy and mineral exploration, and
exploitation in the ocean, or other agreements relating to the conservation, exploration,
exploitation, protection, development and/or management of marine resources within the
territorial seas and exclusive economic zone as well as areas adjacent to the latter;

d. Create and maintain, or cause to be created and maintained, a central database and
information system on maritime and ocean affairs in support of maritime and ocean policy and
decision-making;

e. Identify, network with, and mobilize national and/or international expertise and
institutions in support of or to assist the Government in maritime and ocean policy and decision
making;

f. Undertake, or cause to be undertaken, activities necessary to raise the national archipelagic
consciousness and communicate, in a coordinated manner, publicize national maritime and ocean
interests and issues;

g. Coordinate the participation of the appropriate agencies of government in international
fora, meetings, and conferences that are relevant to the maritime and ocean interests of the
Philippines;

h. Render a regular report to the CABCOM-MOA, through its Chairman, on all activities
undertaken by the Center.

i. Source out and avail of grants, endowments or donations from foreign or local entities in
accordance with existing laws to be applied to projects or studies to implement the policies or
directives of the CABCOM-MOA;

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The Chairman of the CABCOM-MOA shall appoint the Secretary-General who shall head the
Center, and the staff that will provide the technical and administrative support under the supervision of
an Executive Director. The Chairman of the CABCOM-MOA is hereby authorized to hire consultants
and request the detail and secondment of personnel from other government agencies and institutions in
accordance with Civil Service law, rules and regulations.

The Center may call on any department, bureau, office or agency of the government, including
government-owned and controlled corporations, to actively assist in the performance of its duties and
functions.

Sec. 6. Issuance of Implementing Rules.- The Secretary of Foreign Affairs, as Chairman of the
CABCOM-MOA shall promulgate such rules, regulations and other issuances as may be necessary to
ensure the efficient and effective implementation of this Executive Order.

Sec. 7. Repealing Clause.- The provisions of Executive Order No. 738 (1981) Establishing
the Cabinet Committee on the Treaty on the Law of the Sea; Executive Order No. 328 (1988)
Reconstituting the Cabinet Committee on the Law of the Sea; and Executive Order No. 186 (1994)
Expanding the Coverage of the Cabinet Committee on the Law of the Sea and Renaming It As the
Cabinet Committee on Maritime and Ocean Affairs, that are inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed
and superseded.

Sec. 8. Effectivity.- This Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 30 th day of JULY, in the year of our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999).
Presidential Management Staff.

[ Executive Order Nos.:

338]. Manila:

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MALACANAN PALACE
MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 133

MODIFYING THE RATES OF IMPORT DUTY ON CERTAIN IMPORTED ARTICLES
UNDER SECTION 104 OF THE TARIFF AND CUSTOMS CODE OF 1978
(PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1464) AS AMENDED IN ORDER TO IMPLEMENT
SECTION 109 OF REPUBLIC ACT 8435, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE “AGRICULTURE
AND FISHERIES MODERNIZATION ACT OF 1997”

WHEREAS, the government needs to provide the agriculture and fisheries sector interim tariff
adjustments to help the sector to be efficient and globally competitive;

WHEREAS, Section 109 of Republic Act No. 8435, otherwise known as the “Agriculture and
Fisheries Modernization Act of 1997” provides that all enterprises engaged in agriculture and fisheries
as duly certified by the Department of Agriculture, in consultation with the Department of Finance and
Board of Investments shall, for five (5) years after the effectivity of this Act, be exempted from payment
of tariff and duties for the importation of all types of agriculture and fishery inputs, machinery,
and equipment provided, however, that the imported agriculture and fishery inputs, equipment and
machinery shall be for the exclusive use of the importing enterprise.

WHEREAS, Sections 104 and 401 of the Tariff and Customs Code of 1978 (Presidential
Decree No. 1464), as amended, empower the President of the Republic of the Philippines, upon the
recommendation of the National Economic and Development Authority, to increase, reduce, or remove
existing protective rates of import duty, as well as to modify the form of duty.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. The rules and regulations in the tariff-exempt importation of articles listed in
ANNEX “C” shall be in accordance with and as outlined in ANNEX “A” hereof.

SECTION 2. The articles specifically listed in ANNEX “B” hereof, classified under Section 104
of the Tariff and Customs Code of 1978, as amended, shall be accorded zero percent (0%) duty up
to 08 February 2003. However, the rules and regulations outlined in ANNEX “A” in the importation
of articles under this list shall not apply, including the requirement for certificate of eligibility or
accreditation.

SECTION 3. The articles specifically listed in ANNEX “C” hereof, classified under Section 104
of the Tariff and Customs Code of 1978, as amended, shall be accorded zero percent (0%) duty up to
08 February 2003, provided that the importation of said articles shall be accompanied by a certificate
of eligibility or accreditation duly issued by the Department of Agriculture and shall be subject to the
rules and regulations outlined in ANNEX “A” hereof.

SECTION 4. The Department of Agriculture, Department of Finance and Board of Investments,
in consultation with concerned private sector and other government institutions shall conduct an
annual review of the attached ANNEXES “A, B, and C” and shall report the findings of said review
and shall recommend possible amendments to the President.

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SECTION 5. Upon the effectivity of this Executive Order, the abovementioned articles, which
are entered and withdrawn from warehouses in the Philippines shall be levied the rates of duty herein
prescribe.

SECTION 6. All Presidential issuances, administrative rules and regulations, or parts thereof,
which are inconsistent with this Executive Order are hereby revoked or modified accordingly. The Joint
Department Administrative Order No. 1, series of 1998 is also hereby revoked.

SECTION 7. This Executive Order shall take effect thirty (30) days following its complete
publication in two (2) newspapers of general circulation in the Philippines.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 31 st day of JULY, in the year of our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 134

DECLARING AUGUST 12, 1999 AND EVERY 12TH DAY OF AUGUST THEREAFTER AS
INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN LAW DAY

WHEREAS, the Philippines adheres to the principles of human rights and humanitarian laws
enshrined in international human rights treaties and instruments to which it is a State Party;

WHEREAS, human rights laws apply both in times of peace and during armed conflict, while
International Humanitarian Law, or the laws of armed conflict, apply only during times of war or
armed conflict;

WHEREAS, the Philippines, as a Contracting Party to the Four Geneva Conventions of
August 12, 1949: (1) Geneva Convention for the Amelioration of the Condition of the Wounded and
Sick in Armed Forces in the Field; (II) Geneva Convention for the Amelioration of the Condition of the
Wounded, Sick and Shipwrecked Members of Armed Forces at Sea; (III) Geneva Convention Relative
to the Treatment of Prisoners of War; and (IV) Geneva Convention Relative to the Protection of
Civilian Persons in Time of War; and Protocol Additional to the Geneva Conventions and Relating to
the Protection of Victims of Non-International Armed Conflicts which was acceded to by the country
on 11 December 1986, subscribes to the basic principle of disinterested humanitarian aid to all victims
of war and armed conflict without discrimination.

WHEREAS, in solidarity with the other Contracting Parties to the four Geneva Conventions and
Additional Protocol II, the Philippines accepts direct responsibility for the application of international
humanitarian law when involved in an armed conflict.

WHEREAS, the officials and personnel of government departments, law enforcement agencies,
and local government units need to enhance their understanding of the principles of international
humanitarian law in order to further strengthen their resolve to adhere to, promote and protect these
principles;

WHEREAS, the commemoration of International Humanitarian Law Day will raise the people’s
consciousness and promote greater awareness of the principles of International Humanitarian Law;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby declare August 12, 1999 and every 12th day of August
thereafter as International Humanitarian Law Day.

All concerned departments and agencies of the government are enjoined to observe International
Humanitarian Law Day and to actively support and participate in programs and activities to
commemorate this Day.

The Department of National Defense and the Department of Foreign Affairs are hereby
directed to co-chair an ad-hoc committee that will formulate and implement these yearly activities, in
collaboration with the International Committee of the Red Cross in Manila, the Philippine National
Red Cross and the concerned non-government organizations and people’s organizations in the country.

The budget for these yearly activities shall be included in the annual appropriations of the
Department of National Defense.

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Done in the City of Manila, this 31 st day of JULY, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred and
ninety nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 135

MANDATING THE STREAMLINING OF THE NAYONG PILIPINO
FOUNDATION, INCORPORATED

WHEREAS, the Nayong Pilipino Foundation, Inc. through Presidential Decree No. 37, issued
on May 21, 1969 was created primarily to promote Philippine Art and Culture, aims principally
to undertake, promote, encourage and initiate the development of projects in social sciences and
humanities and established parks and recreation centers for the promotion of tourism;

WHEREAS, the NPF encountered financial difficulties constraining its performance or corporate
mandates, adversely affecting its programs and projects to enshrine the rich National Heritage of the
Filipino through the authentic depiction of customs and traditions of natural and historical legacies;

WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees per Resolution No. 65-122297, in line with the government’s
thrust to streamline the bureaucracy, approved to reduce its manpower complement from 214
plantilla positions to only 88 positions;

WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 29, Chapter 5, Book V, Executive Order No. 292, series of 1987,
an entity can reduce its workforce when it has no more fund to sustain its operations; and,

WHEREAS, consistent with Section 77, 78 and 79 of Republic Act No. 8745, the General
Appropriations Act of 1999, the President has been authorized to direct the reorganization of any
department or agency and/or the scaling down or phasing out of their activities, as may be necessary;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested on me by law, do hereby order the streamlining of the NPF,
as follows:

SECTION 1. Objectives . The streamlining shall be taken within the overall context of
redeveloping the area and improve the quality of service the park offers to the public. It is aimed to
improve NPF operations to enable the agency to become more purposive in the pursuance of its visions
and goals.

SEC. 2. Refocusing of Operations . NPF envisions a total Cultural Park and a living microcosm of
Philippine culture, tradition and natural legacies, where a visitor may see a virtual image of the actual
region, its traditional festivals, customs and ways of life. To attain the mission/vision of NPF and a well
maintained cultural park, the strategy to encourage linkages with local government units and with
business partners who can contribute to the redevelopment of the cultural park will be adopted.

SEC. 3. Organization and Staffing Modification . On the basis of the agency’s refocusing of core
functions, the NPF shall be authorized to realign operations, reorganize or modify its structure to come
up with a more responsive, effective and efficient organizational machinery to implement government
policies, plans and programs for the promotion of Philippines culture and arts. The NPF shall likewise
realign its positions or staffing pattern corresponding to the new structure. Within the context of the
recommendation of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), the NPF shall be allowed

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only with eighty-eight (88) positions. The NPF restructuring and staffing modification shall be subject
to the approval of the DBM.

SEC. 4. Early Retirement Incentive Package (ERIP) . An ERIP shall be provided to those who may
want to voluntarily retire or separated from the service to pave the way for streamlining; those whose
positions will be phased-out or declared redundant as a result of the streamlining; and those whose
qualification will not reach the government standards. The ERIP shall cover all regular employees of
the NPF who have rendered at least one year of continuous service with the agency.

SEC. 5. Transitory Provisions . The following provision shall serve to guide implementation in the
interim period:

1. The incumbent officials and employees of the NPF shall continue to exercise their respective
functions, duties and responsibilities with corresponding benefits and privileges unless and
until otherwise ordered by the Executive Director.

2. Employees who may opt to reject assignments or appointments in the new realigned positions
shall receive retirement benefits to which they may be entitled to receive under existing laws.
Otherwise, they may be paid the equivalent of one month for every year of service, computed
based on the highest salary received pursuant to RA No. 6656.

SEC. 6. Funding . A funding assistance will be provided by the National Government to NPF for
the purpose of ERIP. The fund shall be taken from the Miscellaneous Personnel Benefits Fund of the
1999 General Appropriations Act. To achieve programming of the fund, the release of the financial
assistance shall be on reimbursement scheme and only after the DBM has approved the NPF’s
streamlining proposal.

SEC. 7. Reporting Requirement and Timetable . In fulfillment of the above provisions, the NPF
shall submit its compliance to the President through the DBM within 90 days from the date of the
effectivity of this Executive Order.

SEC. 8. Effectivity . This Executive Order shall take effect one day after its publication in a
newspaper of national circulation.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 31 st day of JULY, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999).
Presidential Management Staff.

[ Executive Order Nos.:

- 338]. Manila:

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 136

REQUIRING PRESIDENTIAL APPROVAL OF REQUESTS FOR EXTENSION OF SERVICES OF
PRESIDENTIAL APPOINTEES BEYOND THE COMPULSORY RETIREMENT AGE

WHEREAS, the President under the Constitution has the power to appoint officials of the
executive departments and other officers whose appointments are vested in him, and all other officers
of the Government whose appointments are not otherwise provided for by law, and those whom he
may be authorized by law to appoint;

WHEREAS, power to appoint necessarily includes the power to approve the extension of services
of Presidential appointees beyond the compulsory retirement age;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by the Constitution, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. The President shall approve the extension of services of Presidential appointees
beyond the compulsory retirement age, only upon recommendation by the concerned Department
Secretary, unless otherwise provided by law. The extension of services of non-Presidential appointees
shall be subject to the approval of the Civil Service Commission, only upon the recommendation of the
concerned Department Secretary and in accordance to Executive Order No. 292, otherwise known as
“The Administrative Code of 1987” and other existing laws.

SECTION 2. Officials or employees who have reached the compulsory retirement age of 65 years
shall not be retained in the service, except for exemplary meritorious reasons.

SECTION 3. Any officer or employee requesting for retention in the service shall not be allowed
to assume or continue in office pending receipt of authority from the Office of the President.

SECTION 4. Upon approval of the President, the first extension of services for Presidential
appointees shall be for six (6) months, and subsequently for a second extension of six (6) months, or
for a maximum extension of one ( 1 ) year only.

SECTION 5. All orders, issuances, rules and regulations or parts thereof inconsistent with this
Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

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Done in the City of Manila, this 31 st of July, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred and
ninety-nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 137

DECLARING THE MONTH OF JULY OF EVERY YEAR AS NATIONAL DISASTER
CONSCIOUSNESS MONTH AND INSTITUTIONALIZING THE CIVIL DEFENSE

DEPUTIZATION PROGRAM

WHEREAS, Proclamation No. 296 dated July 29, 1988, declared the first week of July of every
year as Natural Disaster Consciousness Week aimed to increase the awareness of every Filipino to the
ever threatening disasters for a better appreciation of the government’s disaster preparedness programs;

WHEREAS, there is a need to lengthen the duration of the observance to one month, to include
man-made disasters and other emergencies within its scope, to provide national government agencies
and local government units ample time to implement their disaster awareness campaign with longer
focus and on a comprehensive basis;

WHEREAS, it is also imperative to empower and reinforce the capacity of the Disaster
Coordinating Councils at all levels to ensure a coherent, integrated, proficient and responsive
emergency management system in the country;

WHEREAS, to achieve this desired result and effectively ensure the sustainability of the disaster
management program of the government at the grassroots level, dedicated personnel from LGUs
gave to be deputized or designated as focal points or conduits of the program in keeping with local
autonomy;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. The whole month of July of every year is hereby declared as National Disaster
Consciousness Month to be collectively observed by all Filipinos throughout the country through the
conduct of fitting activities for the occasion.

SEC. 2. There is hereby implemented a Civil Defense Deputization Program at the local
government level whereby dedicated personnel of LGUs are designated by the Chairman, National
Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC), as Civil Defense Deputized Coordinators (Tanggol
Patrols), whose primary role is to initiate and coordinate programs, projects and activities on civil
protection and disaster management through an integrated multi-sectoral approach. The Civil Defense
Deputized Coordinators shall also serve as the Executive Officers of the Local Disaster Coordinating
Councils.

SEC. 3. The National Disaster Coordinating Council, Regional Disaster Coordinating Council
and the various local disaster coordinating councils shall ensure the implementation of all programs
and activities under this Order, with the NDCC as the overall coordinator. Moreover, the NDCC is
hereby authorized to call upon any department, agency, office and instrumentality for the necessary
assistance in the discharge of its functions.

This Executive Order takes effect immediately.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 10 th day of August, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety-nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 138

DIRECTING GOVERNMENT ENTITIES INVOLVED IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF CREDIT
PROGRAMS TO ADOPT THE CREDIT POLICY GUIDELINES FORMULATED BY THE

NATIONAL CREDIT COUNCIL

WHEREAS, the government puts priority on the alleviation of poverty in the country;

WHEREAS, greater access to financial services is considered one of the important components in
improving the living conditions of the disadvantaged sectors of the economy;

WHEREAS, there a number of government-funded credit programs that are inefficiently managed
and implemented, resulting in huge inefficiencies and waste of scarce government resources;

WHEREAS, the basic sector still lacks access to credit services despite the proliferation of several
directed credit programs implemented by government line agencies;

WHEREAS, in 1994, Administrative Order No. 86 mandated the National Credit Council (NCC)
to rationalize directed credit programs with the government providing a supportive and appropriate
policy environment and institutional framework towards a viable and sustainable financial market;

WHEREAS, directed credit programs refer to those programs implemented by the government
which are funded out of budgetary allocation, special funds from the government, loans or grants from
donor agencies and are lent out at subsidized interest rates;

WHEREAS, the government will continue to pursue a liberalized and market-oriented economy
where the private sector plays a major role and the government provides the enabling environment for
the efficient functioning of markets and the participation of the private sector;

WHEREAS, this policy is explicitly espoused in the recently enacted Agriculture and Fisheries
Modernization Act and the Social Reform and Poverty Alleviation Act;

WHEREAS, under this policy, subsidies provided by the government will be transparent to
encourage the private sector to provide financial services to the basic sector. The government will,
likewise provide welfare assistance, instead of credit, to the most disadvantaged sector of the economy;

WHEREAS, in accordance with the NCC mandate stated in AO No. 86 and as the lead agency
in the Flagship Program on Credit, the Social Reform Agenda designated the National Credit Council
(NCC) to formulate the necessary policy guidelines for government credit programs;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested upon me by law, hereby order the concerned government financial and non-
financial agencies to adopt the following policy guidelines for the implementation of credit programs.

SECTION 1. The policy of providing the basic sector access to financial services is anchored on
the following principles:

Greater role of the private sector in the provision of financial services to the basic sector;
Adoption of market-oriented financial and credit policies, e.g. market-oriented interest rates
on loans and deposits;

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Government to provide an enabling policy environment, critical support services and
capability-building services that will facilitate the increased participation of the private sector
in the delivery of credit services;

Non-participation of government non-financial agencies and government-owned and
controlled corporation in the implementation of credit programs.

SEC. 2. In line with the foregoing policy principles, the following policies on savings and interest
rates will be adopted:

Savings Mobilization

Savings mobilization will be promoted and encouraged among financial institutions engaged
in the delivery of financial services within the appropriate regulatory framework.

Use of internally generated funds and savings deposits as source of loanable funds will be
given priority.

Appropriate regulatory and prudential standards will be enforced to promote the use of small
savings instruments, particularly in the rural areas.

Interest Rate

Interest rates charged for government credit programs should not be lower than the prevailing
market rates.

The recovery of financial and operational costs of the wholesale/retail financial conduit should
be a paramount consideration in interest rate setting.

SEC. 3. The following guidelines will also be adopted and used by the various institutions
involved in the delivery of credit services:

a. National Government Non-Financial Agencies (GNFAs) and Government-Owned and
Controlled Corporations (GOCCs)

1. GNFAs will focus on the provision and facilitation of critical services such as basic rural
infrastructure (e.g. rural roads, farm to market roads, irrigation services, etc.), human and
organizational infrastructure to make rural-and-urban based on micro-enterprises profitable.

2 GNFAs and GOCCs in partnership with appropriate private sector institutions will focus
on the provision of capability building services (e.g. education and training, operation of
information centers, etc.) to those institutions in the delivery of credit services to the basic
sector.

3 GNFAs and GOCCs will no longer be engaged in providing credit services directly or indirectly
to various sectors. Funds of existing credit programs being implemented by GNFAs will be
channeled through GFIs. GNFAs will work closely with GFIs in identifying the broad target
clientele. The credit decision will be with the GFIs.

4 GNFAs and GOCCs are directed to immediately start the rationalization of directed credit
programs that they are currently implementing in accordance with the rationalization program
of the National Credit Council.

5 Designated regulatory authorities (e.g. Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) for coops
and Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) for private financial institutions) will establish regulatory
and supervisory standards appropriate for credit institutions engaged in the delivery of

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financial services. A system to monitor the implementation of credit programs of government
financial institutions will also be established under the responsibility of the National Credit
Council.

b. Government Financial Institutions (GFIs)

1 GFIs will be the main Government vehicle for the delivery of credit services to the clientele
by providing wholesale funds to private financial institutions that will be engaged in retail
lending. Private financial institutions shall include rural banks, thrift banks, development
banks, cooperatives, cooperative rural banks, non-government organizations and people’s
organizations and other financial institutions regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas with
acceptable experience in credit delivery.

2. For sectors not adequately served by the private financial institutions, GFIs may provide retail
services to these sectors.

3. In line with the direction to move towards wholesale lending, GFIs should develop and
strengthen institutional and financial linkages with participating private financial institutions.

c. Donor Agencies and External Funding

1 The government/GFIs will tap external funding if the terms of the funding do not result in the
distortion of the financial market.

2 Grant funds from donor agencies will only be used to finance capability and institution-
building activities. Grant funds for on-lending may be allowed as long as the relending terms
and conditions of the fund shall conform to the guidelines provided in this Order.

3. Use of loan funds from donor agencies for on-lending purposes of GFIs will be subject to
approval by the Department of Finance. The National Credit Council, in coordination with
concerned government agencies, shall undertake the review of proposed loan programs and
make pertinent recommendations to the DOF.

SEC. 4. The National Credit Council is hereby directed to formulate the operating guidelines of
this Executive Order in consultation with the concerned agencies of the government, and implement
a rationalization program for Directed Credit Programs using the policy guidelines in this Executive
Order. In view of this, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) is directed to coordinate
with the National Credit Council before budgetary funds for the implementation of Credit Programs
by GNFAs and GOCCs are released.

SEC. 5. All government financial and non-financial agencies are directed to adopt these policy
guidelines.

SEC. 6. The government directed credit programs to be covered by this executive order include
those but not limited to the list shown in Annex 1 of this Executive Order.

SEC. 7. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 10 th day of August, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Note: Copy of Annex 1 may be secured in the National Credit Council
Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 139

DECLARING AND DELINEATING THE ESTANCIA PORT ZONE UNDER THE
ADMINISTRATIVE JURISDICTION OF THE PHILIPPINE PORTS AUTHORITY

WHEREAS, the Port of Estancia in the Province of Iloilo has been identified as one of the major
ports to be developed in the country;

WHEREAS, there is a need to expand the Port of Estancia to accommodate projected increases in
port traffic and to program the development of the necessary port facilities to support the demands of
the shipping trade within the region;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. The territorial jurisdiction of the Port of Estancia is hereby expanded and
particularly described as follows:

“Beginning at point marked 1 on the plan, thence to point 2 at a distance of 200.00m with
bearing S 50°00' W, thence to point 3 at a distance of 1,240.00m with bearing S 53°00' E, thence
to point 4 at a distance of 395.00m with bearing N 37°43' E, thence to point 5 at a distance of
1,200.00m with bearing N 53°00' W, thence to point 1, the point of beginning at a distance of
200.00m with bearing S 37°00' W, all in all comprising a total area of 477,235.95 sq. m. more or
less.”

SEC. 2. The Estancia Port Zone, as expanded, is hereby placed under the administrative
jurisdiction of the Philippine Ports Authority, which shall, consistent with the regional industrial plans
of the Government, implement a program for the proper zoning, planning, development and utilization
of the port.

SEC. 3. All other orders, proclamations and issuances or portions thereof which are inconsistent
with this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

SEC. 4. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 10 th day of August, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 140

AMENDING EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 442, S. 1997, “CREATING THE AGNO RIVER BASIN
DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION TO OVERSEE AND COORDINATE ALL DEVELOPMENTAL
ACTIVITIES ALONG THE AGNO RIVER BASIN”

WHEREAS, it is necessary to ensure a holistic approach in water resources planning and
management in the development of the Agno River Basin and in the implementation of its
comprehensive plan;

WHEREAS, the Province of Tarlac has river tributaries connected to the Agno River which
contribute to the imminent threat of destruction caused mainly by lahar flows, and directly endanger
the Basin’s resources;

WHEREAS, there is need to expand the Commission’s coverage and membership to address the
concerns of other affected LGUs;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

Section 1. Expanding the Membership of the Agno River Basin Development Commission.
Section 1 of Executive Order No. 442 dated 23 September 1997, is hereby amended to expand the
membership of the Commission through the inclusion of the Governor of Tarlac as one of the Vice-
Chairmen and the following as additional members:

1. Secretary, Department of Budget and Management

2. Presidential Assistant for Northern Luzon

3. Executive Director, Lingayen Gulf Coastal Areas Management Commission

4. Mayors, Itogon, San Manuel, and Moncada representing Benguet, Pangasinan, and Tarlac,
respectively

Section 2. Effectivity. This Order shall take effect immediately.

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Done in the City of Manila, this 10 th day of August, in the year of our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 141

PROHIBITION AGAINST THE FORGERY AND UNAUTHORIZED USE OF THE SEAL
OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

WHEREAS, Executive Order No. 38 (s. 1947) as amended by Executive Order 451 (s. 1951)
adopted a Coat of Arms, Seal and Flag of the President and Vice President of the Philippines;

WHEREAS, pursuant to Executive Order No. 19 (s. 1998) the Seal of the President of the
Philippines shall be of the following design:

The shield shall consist of the eight-rayed Philippine sun ravonnant in golden yellow; on the
center, an equilateral triangle in gules (red); overall, the traditional sea lion of the Coat of Arms granted
to the City of Manila in 1596, on guard with sword, or at hilt and one mullet in golden yellow in
the corner of each of the three angles of the equilateral triangle: one mullet representing Luzon; one,
Visayas; and another, Mindanao.

The shield shall be surrounded by stars in the form of amulet with one point of each star outward
on the imaginary radiating center lines, the number of stars conforming to the number of provinces of
the Republic at any given time.

The whole shall be encircled with the with the words “Seal of the President of the Philippines” or
“Sagisag ng Pangulo ng Pilipinas;” and,

WHEREAS, the Seal of the President of the Philippines is personal to the President of the Republic
of the Philippines; and

WHEREAS, there has been widespread unauthorized commercial use of the Seal of the President
of the Philippines by way of stickers, pins, keychains, calling cards, stationery and the like, leading to
abuse.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. The Seal of the President shall be for the exclusive use of the President. Accordingly,
any other person and/or organization are prohibited from using the Seal.

SECTION 2. The unauthorized use of the Seal of the President in various forms such as, among
others, stickers, stamps, business cards, passes, car plates, clothing, tokens, souvenirs and stationeries,
shall constitute illegal acts. Likewise prohibited are the unauthorized manufacture, sale and distribution
of the Seal of the President in various forms such as those stated therein.

Any person or organization found guilty of violating this provision shall be subjected to the
penalties as provided for under Article 179 of the Revised Penal Code.

SECTION 3. The forgery or fraudulent alteration of the Seal of the President shall likewise
constitute an illegal act. Any person or organization found guilty of violating this provision shall be
subjected to the penalties as provided for under Article 161 of the Revised Penal Code.

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SECTION 4. The Presidential Security Group (as lead), Department of Justice, National Bureau
of Investigation, Philippine National Police, Metro Manila Development Authority, and the Land
Transportation Office, shall immediately enforce this Order and ensure its proper implementation,
monitoring, apprehension and confiscation, investigation and filing of appropriate charges for
violations thereof.

SECTION 5. Similarly, the use of pins with the Seal of the President and “ERAP” Plates is likewise
prohibited.

SECTION 6. The Presidential Security Group shall submit to the Office of the President, through
the Presidential Management Staff, a report on the implementation of this Order, within twenty (20)
days from the date of effectivity of this Order.

This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 12th day of August, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 142

REVIVING THE MUNICIPAL TELEPHONE PROJECT OFFICE (MTPO) AND PROVIDING
FUNDS THEREFOR FROM THE CONTINGENCY FUND OF THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT

WHEREAS, the MTPO was given zero allocation under 1999 General Appropriations Act and
as a consequence thereof, was deactivated pursuant to Executive Order No. 78 dated 05 March 1999;

WHEREAS, after a further review of the MTPO programs in relation to the present national
development objectives and the pro-poor thrusts of the administration, together with concept
modifications thereto under the “Telepono sa Barangay” program in order to provide our people
in the unserved and underserved areas in the Philippines full access to the national, political, social
and economic mainstream and to the global free market economy, it was found that the continued
implementation thereof is indispensable to spur and speed up economic development especially at the
barangay level;

WHEREAS, the nature, magnitude and urgency of the existing MTPO programs and the concept
modifications thereto under the “Telepono sa Barangay” program require that an entity with the
appropriate mandate, structure and staffing should focus its attention to, and energy on, said activities;
accordingly, the MTPO which RA 6849 created for the purpose is the appropriate project office that
should handle such programs instead of the Telecommunication Office which, after a deeper scrutiny,
has areas of concern and responsibility different from those of the MTPO.

WHEREAS, in the absence of budget and until such time that the appropriate allocation in the
national budget is given to the MTPO, there is a need to pursue and continue the projects already
started as the corresponding loan packages have already been arranged, and further delays in the
implementation of projects already started and for implementation will most likely cause substantial
upward adjustments in the total project cost;

WHEREAS, considering the importance and urgency of the ongoing programs and the subsequent
programs to be implemented under the Improved “Telephone sa Barangay” project, the revival of the
MTPO and infusion of funds therefor to finance its undertakings and operation appear advisable
under the circumstance.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

1. Revival of the Municipal Telephone Project Office - The Municipal Telephone Project
Office (MTPO) under the Department of Transportation and Communications, which was
deactivated under Executive Order No. 78, is hereby revived. Accordingly all functions,
programs, equipment, facilitates, records, and properties as well as obligations transferred to
the Telecommunications Office, are hereby reverted to the MTPO.

2. Provision of Funds - The sum of Four Hundred Million (P400M) Pesos from the Contingency
Fund of the President is hereby allocated to the MTPO to fund its operations and project

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covered by duly executed contract and perfected loan/financing agreements, subject to
availability of funds, and existing budget, accounting and auditing rules and regulations.

3. MTPO Streamlining - The Project Director, subject to the control and supervision of the DOTC
Secretary, shall streamline MTPO operations and project implementation with the end in view
of employing the least number of personnel and incurring the least cost therefor.

4. All executive orders, rules, regulations or other issuances or parts thereof which are inconsistent
with the provisions of this Executive Order are hereby revoked or modified accordingly.

This Executive Order shall take effect fifteen (15) days after the completion of its publication in at
least one national newspaper of general circulation.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 13 th day of August, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999).
Presidential Management Staff.

[ Executive Order Nos.:

338]. Manila:

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 143

INSTITUTING EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL MECHANISMS AND STRATEGIES
IN THE TARIFF COMMISSION

WHEREAS, recent developments in international trade brought about by the coming into
force of the World Trade Organization, the acceleration of the Common Effective Preferential Tariff
(CEPT) Scheme in the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA), and the trade liberalization initiatives under
the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum have necessitated a comprehensive and radical
restructuring of the Philippine tariff system;

WHEREAS, in view of these developments, the Tariff Reform Program has been restructured to
promote global competitiveness, simplify the tariff structure, facilitate trade, and level the playing field
for local industries vis-a-vis foreign competitors;

WHEREAS, the Tariff Commission, as the agency responsible for undertaking a thorough study
of the Philippine Trade and Tariff system, should adopt operational strategies and activities to make it
effective in encouraging the development and growth of efficient, self-reliant, innovative, progressive
and globally competitive Philippine industries;

WHEREAS, under Section 80 of the General Provisions of Republic Act No. 8522 (FY General
Appropriations Act), heads of departments, bureaus and agencies are directed to scale down, phase-out
or abolish activities no longer essential in the delivery of public services;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue of
the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

Section 1. Roles of the Commission. In the light of a freer and more liberal trading environment,
the following functions of the Commission shall be strengthened and emphasized:

1.1 Institutionalization and acceleration of economic reforms to raise levels of competition,
encourage economic efficiency, and improve consumer welfare;

1.2 Intensification of all measures to strengthen the Philippine trade relations with all other
countries, economies, and institutions in the international community;

1.3 Provision of trade assistance and facilitation to domestic industry;

1.4 Investigation of anti-dumping practices of foreign industries affecting the Philippine economy,
and expedite the fair and thorough adjudication of all cases involving trade measures;

1.5 Reinforcement of all research activities that study levels of competition and contestability in
our economy and monitor the trade practices and activities of all other countries, economies,
and institutions in the international community; and

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1.6 Conduct of a continuing program of advocacy to promote new developments in international
trade and tariff policy.

Section 2. Organizational and Operational Streamlining. To achieve efficiency and effectiveness,
the Commission shall study/review its existing operational process, systems and set-up, and
determine appropriate mechanisms and strategies to meet its mandated functions. The recommended
arrangements shall be submitted to the Department of Budget and Management for approval before
their adoption by the Commission.

Section 3. Redeployment of Personnel. The redeployment of personnel in the Commission
as a result of the approved operational set-up shall not result in the diminution in the rank and
compensation of the personnel of the Commission, and shall take into account all pertinent Civil
Service laws and rules.

Section 4. Funding. Funds needed to carry out the provisions of this Executive Order shall be
taken from funds available in the Commission. Provided, that the total cost for necessary staffing
changes as a result of the implementation of this Order shall not exceed available funds for the
Personal Service.

Section 5. Effectivity. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 21 st day of August, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 144

ESTABLISHING THE COORDINATIVE AND INTEGRATION MECHANISM FOR THE
IMPLEMENTATION OF THE DAVAO INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

WHEREAS, the Davao Integrated Development Program (DIDP) is a collaborative effort of the
provinces of Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley, and the cities of
Davao, Tagum, and the Island Garden City of Samal;

WHEREAS, the program has achieved significant strides in integrating the development initiatives
and plans of the local government units as well as the national government line agencies since its
inception in 1994;

WHEREAS, through the DIDP Master Plan, LGUs have a more focused, efficient and effective
approach to the management of sub-regional development under the Regional Development Council;
and

WHEREAS, the DIDP Master Plan responds to and complements the National Government’s
10-Point Agenda particularly in the attainment of food security and poverty alleviation in Mindanao.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of powers vested in me by law and the Constitution, do hereby order the
following:

SECTION 1. Establishment of the Davao Integrated Development Board . There is hereby
established the Davao Integrated Development Board, hereinafter referred to as the Board, which shall
serve as a special body to coordinate and promote the socio-economic growth and development of
the Davao Gulf area. The board shall be attached to the Office of the President, through the Flagship
Committee.

SECTION 2. Composition of the Board . The DIDP Board shall be composed of the following:
Chairperson of the Regional Development Council for Region XI; Governors of the Provinces of
Davao del Sur, Davao del Norte, Davao Oriental, and the Compostela Valley; the City Mayors of
Davao, Tagum, and the Island Garden City of Samal; Regional Director of NEDA and DA for Region
XI; and, the Managing Director of the Project Management Office (PMO). The Chairperson and the
Vice-Chairperson of the Board shall be elected from among its members.

SECTION 3. Powers and Functions of the Board . The Board shall exercise the following powers
and functions:

a. Formulate policies and guidelines and establish development goals within the context of the
Regional Development Plan and the Mindanao Development Framework;

b. Supervise, facilitate, orchestrate, and provide overall direction on the planning, timely
implementation, and monitoring of all project components and development activities;

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c. Pool existing resources and encourage the support and participation of government and
non-government institutions by creating task forces or appropriate bodies to expedite
implementation of major development projects;

d. Review and endorse for the approval of the Regional Development Council (RDC), Region XI,
the multi-year and annual plans and investment programs under the project;

e. Review and endorse to the DBM, through the RDC, the annual budget for the project as well
as for the operations of the PMO;

f. Review and approve contracts entered into by the Project Director;

g. Review and approve the organization of the PMO;

h Submit to the Office of the President, through the Flagship Committee, the RDC, the NEDA
Board and Congress annual reports on the project and such other reports as may be required;

i. Formulate implementing rules and regulations pertaining to the internal operations of the
PMO; and

j. Perform such other functions as may be required by the President.

SECTION 4. Project Management Office . The Project Management Office to be headed by a
Managing Director is hereby established to serve as the technical and administrative secretariat of the
Board. It shall perform, the following functions:

a. Provide technical support and assistance to the DIDP Board and coordinate with various City
and Provincial Planning and Development Offices, regional offices of national government
agencies, non-government organizations, the private sector and other concerned entities to
facilitate the implementation of the Program;

b. Enter into contract, through its Managing Director, to facilitate the technical and administrative
operations of the PMO, subject to existing laws, rules and regulations;

c. Undertake periodic review and evaluation of projects and make appropriate recommendations
to the DIDP Board;

d. Ensure implementation of plans and programs of concerned government agencies and
initiatives of non-government organizations and private sector groups for sustainable
development of the growth area; and,

e. Perform other functions as may be assigned by the DIDP Board.

SECTION 5. Coordination and Integration Mechanism . To promote harmonious working
relationship and maintain an effective coordination mechanism among the development players in
the area, the DIDP Board, through the PMO, shall coordinate closely with concerned agencies and
sectors plans and programs for the area to ensure integration and complementation of all development
initiatives. Further, the DIDP Board, through the PMO, shall ensure that concerned agencies actively
participate in meetings and consultations that the DIDP Board may initiate and hold.

SECTION 6. Funding . Funds necessary for the operation of the Board and PMO shall be sourced
by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) from available resources, upon submission by
the DIDP Board of its work and financial plan.

SECTION 7. Separability Clause . If any part or provision of this Executive Order is held invalid
or unconstitutional, the other parts or provisions not affected shall remain valid and effective.

SECTION 8. Effectivity . This Executive Order shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its
publication in two (2) newspapers of national circulation.

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DONE, in the City of Manila, this 23 rd day of August, in the Year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of
Presidential Management Staff.

the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 145

AMENDING EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 386 DATED 19 DECEMBER 1989,
ESTABLISHING A NATIONAL CRIME INFORMATION SYSTEM (NCIS),
PROVIDING THE MECHANISMS THEREFORE AND FOR OTHER SIMILAR PURPOSES

Whereas, Executive Order No. 386 dated 19 December 1989, has mandated the establishment
of a National Crime Information System (NCIS) to help in the identification and apprehension of
criminals, improve the efficiency of criminal justice agencies and ultimately help reduce crimes, through
better planning and use of manpower, equipment and government resources;

Whereas, there is a need to accelerate the implementation of the National Crime Information
System (NCIS) in order to build a comprehensive criminal database;

Whereas, timely, accurate and complete crime information shall help our Criminal Justice System
to perform their functions in law enforcement, prosecution, adjudication, correction and rehabilitation;

Whereas, crime statistics which can be derived from the system can be used in the formulation
of crime prevention programs, policy making and sectoral planning to address crime and lawlessness;

Whereas, crime is detrimental to the economic condition of the country and criminal syndicates
are getting sophisticated thus, consolidation of information resources of various criminal justice
agencies is required to combat criminal syndicates;

NOW THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

Section 1. The Chairman of the National Police Commission, the Director of the National Bureau
of Investigation, the Chief and Director General of the Philippine National Police and the Secretary
General of the National Statistical Coordination Board shall comprise the NCIS Advisory Board. The
Advisory Board shall be the policy making body of the National Crime Information System (NCIS).

Section 2. The establishment of the NCIS shall include the application development, acquisition
of hardware and networking equipment, installation of telecommunication facilities, database build-
up, manning and manpower training and all other necessary components. This shall be implemented in
the following phases:

Phase I, Establishment of the NCIS at the National Capital Region and its nationwide expansion.

This phase shall be completed within the next two years.

The Offices that shall be primarily involved under this phase are those that operate under the four

pillars of the Criminal Justice System:

1. The Law Enforcement - Philippine National Police, National Bureau of Investigation and
National Police Commission.

2. The Prosecution - National Prosecution Service

3. The Courts - Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, Sandiganbayan, Regional Trial Courts,
Metropolitan and Municipal Courts

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4. The Corrections - Bureau of Corrections, Parole and Probation Administration, Bureau of Jail
Management And Penology and the Board of Pardon and Parole.

Phase II. This phase shall include activities concerning the development of Crime Information
System related to other offices not covered under Phase I. It shall include computer upgrading,
systems development and manpower training for technical personnel of other offices concerned as
systems link-up or networking is reported to ensure an effective and efficient data communication
between and among participating agencies. This phase shall be completed within the next five (5)
years.

Section 3. The National Computer Center shall be the implementing agency of the NCIS and shall
be responsible for its immediate and timely completion. Accordingly, the NCC shall form a body with
representation from each of the participating agencies and complemented by highly technical personnel
necessary in the execution of the project.

Section 4. All NCIS participating agencies are hereby directed to fully cooperate and coordinate
with the NCC to ensure the strict and immediate implementation of the NCIS Project to guarantee its
success.

Section 5. The other agencies/departments/bureaus responsible in generating crime information in
their respective areas are directed to coordinate with the National Computer Center in complying with
the standardization of the criminal database. These departments and their respective bureaus/agencies/
offices are indicated below:

a. Department of National Defense - pertaining to violation of airport security laws, maritime
laws and war and military laws.

b. Department of Finance - pertaining to violations of customs, laws, economic crimes and
violations of internal revenue laws.

c. Department of Transportation and Communications - pertaining to violations of air space,
Land Transportation Code, maritime laws and franchising of Domestic Water Transportation

d. Department of Interior and Local Government - pertaining to crime information on prisoners
confined at the provincial jails

e. Department of Social Welfare and Development - pertaining to youthful offenders

f. Department of Health - pertaining to violations of food and drug laws and regulations

g. Department of Trade and Industry - pertaining to crime information on consumer protection
and domestic trade laws and regulations

h. Department of Foreign Affairs - pertaining to crime information on Philippine foreign policies,
illegal processing and issuance of passports, visas and travel documents.

i. Dangerous Drugs Board - pertaining to violations of RA 6125 (Dangerous Drugs Law), as
amended.

j. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas - pertaining to violation of banking laws.

k. Department of Justice - pertaining to all criminal investigations.

l. Such other agencies as may be mandated by law to implement special laws.

Section 6. The Department of Budget and Management shall transfer all funds related to the
NCIS Project from the different participating agencies to the NCC. The NCC shall have control and
supervision over the disbursement of NCIS funds, including all future appropriations for the NCIS
Project.

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The agencies involved in the completion of Phase I of the NCIS Project, as defined in Section 2
above, shall be the following:

1 The Law Enforcement - Philippine National Police, National Bureau of Investigation and
National Police Commission.

2. The Prosecution - National Prosecution Service

3. The Courts - Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, Sandiganbayan, Regional Trial Courts,
Metropolitan and Municipal Courts

4. The Corrections - Bureau of Corrections, Parole and Probation Administration, Bureau of Jail
Management And Penology and the Board of Pardon and Parole.

Section 7. The amount of Twenty Million Pesos (P20,000,000.00) from the contingency funds of
the Office of the President is hereby allocated as initial operating funds for the NCC to implement the
NCIS Project.

Section 8. All decrees, orders, memoranda inconsistent with the provisions of this Order are
hereby repealed, amended or modified accordingly.

Section 9. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately. The National Computer Center
shall promulgate the implementing rules and regulations to carry out and accomplish the objectives of
this Executive Order.

Done in the City of Manila, this 27 th day of August, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety-nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By authority of the President:
(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA
Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999).
Presidential Management Staff.

[ Executive Order Nos.:

338]. Manila:

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 146

CONSTITUTING THE GREATER METROPOLITAN MANILA
SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the State to protect and advance the right of the people to a
balanced and healthful ecology;

WHEREAS, a balanced and healthful ecology requires, among others, the proper and efficient
disposal of solid waste;

WHEREAS, one of the basic services that need to be properly managed in Metro Manila and its
environs is the collection, treatment and disposal of solid waste;

WHEREAS, in view of the highly-urbanized nature of Metro Manila, and the movement of
population between and among the metropolis and its surrounding provinces, the management of solid
waste must be extended to the adjoining provinces of Bataan, Batangas, Bulacan, Cavite, Pampanga,
Laguna, Rizal and Zambales;

WHEREAS, to enable the government to undertake measures to prevent a garbage crisis in
Metro Manila and its adjoining provinces, there is need to constitute a body that shall formulate and
implement a comprehensive Solid Waste Management Plan for said areas.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

Section 1. Constitution of the GMMSWMC. There is hereby constituted a Greater Metropolitan
Manila Solid Waste Management Committee, hereinafter referred to as GMMSWMC or as the
Committee.

Section 2. Composition. The GMMSWMC shall have the Chairman of the Presidential
Committee on Flagship Programs and Projects (Flagship Committee) as its Chairman, and the
following as members:

Secretary, Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Secretary, Department of Science and Technology
Secretary, Department of Public Works and Highways
Secretary, Department of Health
Secretary, Department of Justice

Director-General, National Economic and Development Authority

Head, Presidential Management Staff

Chairman, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority

Governor, Bataan

Governor, Batangas

Governor, Bulacan

Governor, Cavite

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Governor, Laguna

Governor, Pampanga

Governor, Rizal

Governor, Zambales

The GMMSWMC may expand its membership to include officials of concerned agencies and of
neighboring LGUs, should their participation be necessary.

Section 3. Functions. The GMMSWMC shall serve as the over-all coordinating body for
the formulation and implementation of a Solid Waste Management Plan for Metro Manila and the
adjoining provinces of Bataan, Batangas, Bulacan, Cavite, Pampanga, Laguna, Rizal and Zambales.
In the preparation of the Plan, the Committee shall utilize all the previous studies conducted by
MMDA, the Presidential Task Force on Waste Management, local government units constituting the
GMMSWMC, and other agencies.

Section 4. Technical Working Groups. The GMMSWMC may create Technical Working Groups
(TWGs) consisting of the members of the Committee to assist in the performance of its tasks.

Section 5. Technical and Secretariat Support. The Flagship Committee, with the assistance of the
MMDA, shall provide secretariat and technical support to the GMMSWMC and its TWGs.

Section 6. Funding. During the first year of operation, the GMMSWMC shall have an operating
budget of Ten Million Pesos (P10,000,000.00) which shall be chargeable against the funds of the Office
of the President. Thereafter, GMMSWMC funding shall be included in the annual appropriations of
the Office of the President. The Committee shall submit a work and financial plan to the Department
of Budget and Management.

Section 7. Reporting Clause. The GMMSWMC shall submit semi-annual reports to the President
on its activities and accomplishments.

Section 8. Repealing Clause. This Executive Order repeals Memorandum Order No. 19, s. 1998,
and amends all other issuances inconsistent with this Executive Order.

Section 9. Separability Clause. If any of the provisions of this Order shall be declared
unconstitutional, the other provisions of this Order shall remain valid.

Section 10. Effectivity. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, Philippines, this 26 th day of August, in the year of our Lord, nineteen
hundred and ninety nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999).
Presidential Management Staff.

[ Executive Order Nos.:

- 338]. Manila:

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 147

CONSTITUTING THE PRESIDENTIAL CONSCIENCE COMMITTEE TO REVIEW
CASES OF DEATH CONVICTS SCHEDULED FOR EXECUTION

WHEREAS, Republic Act 7659 imposed the death penalty on certain heinous crimes “in the
interest of justice, public order, and the rule of law;”

WHEREAS, RA 7659 states that “In all cases where the death sentence has become final, the
records of the case shall be forwarded immediately by the Supreme Court to the Office of the President
for possible exercise of the pardoning power;”

WHEREAS, the President has exercised, on several occasions, his power under the Constitution
(Article VII) to grant reprieve to death convicts;

WHEREAS, there is need to balance humanitarian concerns and the demands of social justice
in the implementation of the law on death penalty and the exercise of the President’s power to grant
reprieve, commutations, and pardons;

WHEREAS, there is need for a multidisciplinary group that will assist the President in reviewing
cases of death penalty turned over by the Supreme Court to the Office of the President.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, hereby order that:

SECTION 1. CONSTITUTION OF THE COMMITTEE. There is hereby constituted a
Presidential Conscience Committee to Review Cases of Death Convicts Scheduled for Execution
(hereinafter referred to as “Committee”). The Committee shall be purely a consultative and
recommendatory body and shall not in any way limit or constrain the President’s pardoning power.

SECTION 2. COMPOSITION. The Conscience Committee shall be chaired by the Executive
Secretary, with the following as members:

(a) One representative from the social sciences;

(b) One representative from a non-government organization involved in anti-crime campaign; and

The Committee may call on representatives from the families of the accused and the victim during
its deliberations.

The members of the Committee from the private sector shall not be considered as public officials
but rather as private sector representatives in a consultative and recommendatory body.

SECTION 3. FUNCTIONS. The Committee shall have the following functions:

(a) Undertake a review of cases of death convicts turned over by the Supreme Court to the Office
of the President and scheduled for execution, taking into consideration both humanitarian
concerns and the demands of social justice; and

(b) Submit a recommendation to the President on the possible exercise of the President’s power to
grant reprieve, commutations, and pardons.

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SECTION 4. REPORTING. The Committee shall submit its recommendations to the President
not later than 48 hours before the scheduled execution of the convict.

SECTION 5. SUPPORT FROM OTHER GOVERNMENT AGENCIES. All agencies and
instrumentalities of government are hereby directed to provide assistance to the Committee in the
exercise of its functions.

SECTION 6. SEPARABILITY CLAUSE. If, for any reason or reasons, any part of the provisions
of this Order shall be held unconstitutional or invalid, other parts or provisions hereof which are not
affected thereby shall continue to be in full force and effect.

SECTION 7. EFFECTIVITY. This Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 27 th day of August, in the Year of our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 148

ESTABLISHING THE SOCSKSARGEN FISHING INDUSTRY STEERING COMMITTEE

WHEREAS, Pacific Island Nations, whose waters are traditional tuna fishing grounds, have
proposed and imposed laws that would close these waters to Filipino fishermen;

WHEREAS, the rapid growth of the SOCSKSARGEN fishing industry necessitates wider access
of Filipino fishermen to major fishing grounds of our neighboring countries and Pacific Island Nations;

WHEREAS, an active government support for the SOCSKSARGEN fishing industry would boost
the performance of this national income earner, as well as advance the country’s position as the leading
supplier in the approximately US$3 billion a year worldwide tuna market;

WHEREAS, there is a need to create a national level inter-agency committee that will address the
policy concerns and needs of the SOCSKSARGEN fishing industry both at the local and international
levels;

WHEREAS, the SOCSKSARGEN Area Development Project Office established under Executive
Order No. 474 (s. 1991) and reconstituted under Executive Order No. 39 and 39-A (s. 1998) under the
Presidential Committee on Flagship Programs and Projects oversees the overall development of major
infrastructure projects in and around General Santos;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law and the Constitution, do hereby order:

Section 1. Establishment of the SOCSKSARGEN Fishing Industry Steering Committee . There is
hereby established a SOCSKSARGEN Fishing Industry Steering Committee, hereinafter referred to as
the Steering Committee.

The Steering Committee shall be composed of the following:

Chairman, Presidential Committee on Flagship Programs and Projects

Secretary, Department of Agriculture

Secretary, Department of Foreign Affairs

Secretary, Department of Labor and Employment

Secretary, Department of Tourism

Secretary, Department of Trade and Industry

Secretary, Department of Transportation and Communication

Director General, National Economic and Development Authority

Director General, Technical Education Skills Development Administration

Director, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources

Mayor, General Santos City

Chairman

Co-Chairman

Member

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Section 2. Functions . The Steering Committee shall act as the overall coordinating body to oversee
policy issues affecting the development of the fishing industry in SOCSKSARGEN. In particular, it shall
have the following functions:

a. Formulate an Action Plan for the development of the SOCSKSARGEN fishing industry
consistent with the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act of 1997 and Philippine
Fisheries Code of 1998, utilizing the results of all studies conducted by the Growth with Equity
in Mindanao Program of the United States Agency for International Development, the Office of
the President for Mindanao, Department of Agriculture, SOCSKSARGEN Area Development
Project Office, and other agencies;

b. Review and recommend policies affecting the SOCSKSARGEN fishing industry, including
those which affect bilateral fishing relations and the development of marine industrial facilities
in the area;

c. Call on any government agency to assist in the formulation of the industry action plan, and in
the review of policies and implementation of projects in the region; and

d. Coordinate with public and private entities who may be affected by the development of the
SOCSKSARGEN fishing industry.

Section 3. Technical Working Group . The Steering Committee may create technical working
groups (TWGs) as may be necessary in the discharge of its functions.

Section 4. Administrative Support . The SOCSKSARGEN Area Development Project Office shall
provide technical and administrative support to the Steering Committee and the TWGs.

Section 5. Repealing; Clause . All issuances, orders, rules and regulations or parts thereof which are
inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

Section 6. Effectivity . This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

Done in the City of Manila, this 1st day of September, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RAMON B. CARDENAS

Acting Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999).
Presidential Management Staff.

[ Executive Order Nos.:

338]. Manila:

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 149

FURTHER AMENDING EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 396, SERIES OF 1997, ENTITLED
“PROVIDING THE INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR THE ADMINISTRATION
OF THE STANDARDS OF TRAINING, CERTIFICATION AND WATCHKEEPING
FOR SEAFARERS IN THE PHILIPPINES”

WHEREAS, there is an urgent need to strengthen the institutional framework for the
administration of the 1978 Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers
(STCW) Convention, as amended, in order to effectively implement the provisions of the Convention,
thereby ensuring the compliance by the Filipino seafarers with the above standards;

WHEREAS, the status of the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) as the lead agency and the
Administration for the implementation of the 1978 STCW Convention, as amended, has to be firmly
and unequivocably established, affirming the government’s commitment to the International maritime
Organization;

WHEREAS, there is a need to clarify certain responsibilities of the Administration (MARINA)
under international conventions in the light of Republic Act No. 8544 otherwise known as the
“Philippine Merchant Marine Officers Act of 1998.”

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order the amendment of Executive
Order Nos. 396, as amended, providing for the institutional framework for the administration of the
1978 STCW Convention, as amended, in the Philippines.

SECTION 1. Administration for STCW . The MARINA shall continue to be the Administration
for the implementation of the STCW Convention, as amended, and shall have the following obligations
and responsibilities:

1 Communicate to the IMO and other concerned parties/agencies any supplemental information
necessary, including subsequent amendments to its rules, regulations and/or procedures relative
to the Philippine compliance with or implementation of the Convention;

2. Issue, jointly with the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), the endorsement attesting
the issue of a certificate under the provisions of the 1978 STCW Convention, as amended in
1995, upon issuance of the certificates of competency by the PRC under Republic Act No.
8544. The prescribed Endorsement of Certificate form is attached as Annex “A”;

3. Serve as the central repository of information relative to Regulation 1/9 of the Convention and
maintain copies of the certificates of competency and its corresponding STCW endorsement;

4. Coordinate, monitor, and verify compliance by concerned government agencies with their
Quality Standards System pursuant to Regulation 1/8 of the Convention;

5. Participate in any policy formulation activities by concerned government agencies as they
pertain to the implementation of the Convention;

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6. Facilitate requests from other maritime administrations in coordination with other government
agencies involved regarding confirmation of Philippine compliance with the Convention in
accordance with Regulation 1/10, paragraph 1.1 thereof;

7. Perform such functions as may be requested by the Maritime Training Council (MTC) and
such acts as are proper and necessary to effectively implement this Executive Order.

SEC. 2. The STCW Executive Committee (EXCOM) . The MARINA Administrator shall be the
Chairman of the STCW EXCOM, with representatives from the Commission on Higher Education
(CHED), the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), the
Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the Philippine Overseas Employment
Administration (POEA), the National Telecommunication Commission (NTC), the Department of
Health (DOH) and the Maritime Training Council (MTC) as regular members. The representative to
the EXCOM shall have a rank not lower than Director II.

SEC. 3. Implementing Rules and Regulations . The STCW EXCOM shall immediately convene to
prepare the Implementing Rules and Regulations for the effective implementation of This Executive
Order.

SEC. 4. Reports . The STCW EXCOM, in coordination with the MTC, shall provide a quarterly
report to the President, through the Executive Secretary, on the status of the country’s compliance with
the STCW Convention.

SEC. 5. Repealing Clause . All issuances, rules and regulations, or parts thereof, inconsistent with
the provisions of this Order, are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

SEC. 6. Effectivity . This order shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in a newspaper
of general circulation.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 7 th day of September, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety-nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RAMON B. CARDENAS

Acting Executive Secretary

Reference: Endorsement Attesting the Issue of a Certificate under the Provisions of the International
Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978, as amended
in 1995

Source : Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
OF THE PHILIPPINES
MALACANANG

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 150

ABOLISHING THE PRESIDENTIAL ANTI-SMUGGLING TASK FORCE
AND THE TASK FORCE ON SUGAR SMUGGLING

WHEREAS, Executive Order No. 32 dated October 26, 1998 created the Task Force on Sugar
Smuggling under the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) to investigate and
prosecute sugar smuggling;

WHEREAS, Executive Order No. 45 dated December 3, 1998 created the Presidential Anti-
Smuggling Task Force in the Office of the President to investigate and prosecute crimes involving
large scale smuggling and other frauds upon customs and providing measures to expedite seizure
proceedings;

WHEREAS, the functions of the Task Force on Sugar Smuggling and the Presidential Anti-
Smuggling Task Force could now be undertaken by the existing agencies of the government;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. ABOLITION OF THE PRESIDENTIAL ANTI-SMUGGLING TASK FORCE
AND THE TASK FORCE ON SUGAR SMUGGLING. The Presidential Anti-Smuggling Task Force
created pursuant to Executive Order No. 45 issued on December 3, 1998 and the Task Force on
Sugar Smuggling created pursuant to Executive Order No. 32 issued on October 26, 1998 are hereby
abolished.

SECTION 2. TRANSFER OF FUNCTIONS. The functions of the Presidential Anti-Smuggling
Task Force and Task Force on Sugar Smuggling shall be performed by the appropriate government
agencies of the government such as the Bureau of Customs, National Bureau of Investigation and
Economic Intelligence Investigation Bureau pursuant to their respective charters.

SECTION 3. TRANSFER OF FUNDS AND EQUIPMENT OF ABOLISHED TASK
FORCES. The remaining funds and equipment of the Presidential Anti-Smuggling Task Force and
the Task Force on Sugar Smuggling shall be transferred to the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime
Commission.

SECTION 4. REPEALING CLAUSE. All orders, issuances, rules and regulations, or parts thereof
which are inconsistent with this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

SECTION 5 . EFFECTIVITY. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 3 rd day of September, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 151

ESTABLISHING THE FARMERS TRUST DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM AND PROVIDING
INSTITUTIONAL REFORMS AND FUND MECHANISMS FOR MOBILIZING LONG TERM
PRIVATE SECTOR CAPITAL FOR RURAL DEVELOPMENT

WHEREAS, the government’s priority goals of poverty eradication, food security, global
competitiveness and empowerment of the farmer require the creation of new institutional structures
and mechanisms that can expand medium and long term private sector investments in agriculture;

WHEREAS, the achievement of these goals requires the voluntary consolidation of small farm
operations into medium and large scale integrated enterprises that can access long term capital for
critical modernization requirements needed to attain global competitiveness;

WHEREAS, the provision of incentives requires an institutional shift from direct subsidies and
inputs towards risk-aversion mechanisms such as insurance, securities and guaranty schemes that
enable diversification and formation of medium and large scale integrated farm enterprises;

WHEREAS, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) is tasked to directly assist farmers, who
are society’s most impoverished, vulnerable and economically non-competitive sector, by undertaking
innovative schemes to improve farm productivity and income;

WHEREAS, to enable the formation of integrated farm enterprises, the Department of Finance
(DOF) must take the lead in catalyzing investments and developing long term capital market for
agriculture through appropriate financial support, incentives and fund mechanism, including tapping
of credits allocated to the agriculture and agrarian sectors under the Agri-Agra law;

WHEREAS, the Quedan and Rural Credit Guarantee Corporation (Quedancor) is mandated
under RA 7393 (Quedancor Charter) to provide credit, investment and guaranty mechanisms to
assist small farmers, producers and fisherfolk, and is also mandated under RA 8435 (Agriculture and
Fisheries Modernization Act of 1997) to consolidate and manage the guaranty funds of the government
and to establish a centralized government capability for agricultural guaranty.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines by virtue of the authority vested in me by law, do hereby order:

Section 1. Establishment of the Farmers Trust Development Program . The Farmers Trust
Development Program, hereinafter referred to as the Program, is hereby established. The Program shall
promote, authorize and support the voluntary consolidation of small scale agricultural landholdings
into medium and large scale farm enterprises through a usufruct trust arrangement with a Service
Consortium, to be chosen by the participating farmers and approved by the DAR.

Section 2. Components . The Program shall have the following components:

a. Farmers Trust . Individual agricultural landholdings in suitable commodity belt areas, can be
made available to a Farmers Trust Enterprise through the conveyance of the usufructuary rights

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to the Trust, by the respective owners or rights holders, who shall retain ownership and title to
the properties, and share in the income of the enterprise under an equitable arrangement.

The farm owners may opt to work for the enterprise with priority to employment. For ease of
organization, the farmers may be represented by a properly authorized cooperative, federation
or farmer association.

b. Service Consortium . The Service Consortium shall undertake the organization and development
of the Trust Enterprise and assist in securing capital resources through the system of project
securitization and issuance of project participation certificates. The Consortium, which shall be
chosen by the farmers or land rights holders, shall also provide a total package of production
inputs and services, to include a unified management system, organizational support, supply
of key technologies, equipment and other modernization requirements to put the Enterprise’s
productivity at par with international standards, and provide the critical arrangements for
an assured market. The type of services to be provided by the Consortium shall be entirely
demand-driven.

c. Trust Agreement . The farmer or land rights holder and the Service Consortium shall enter into
a trust agreement defining the undertakings of both Parties. The agreement shall include the
(1) conveyance of the usufructuary rights of the individual land rights holders to the Farmers
Trust to be formed under a Trustee Bank to be appointed by the Parties; (2) package of critical
services; (3) project inputs and resources to be provided by the Service Consortium; (4) life
term of the agreement and exit options; (5) economic and equitable profit sharing arrangement;
and (6) other accountabilities and duties of the Parties to the Trustee Bank as the enforcer of
the agreement, the custodian of the assets, cash flows of the project, and protector of the rights
of investors and creditors of the Trust.

d. Project Securitization . The Farmers Trust Enterprise shall be funded mainly through the capital
formation or financing system of project securitization as validly developed and practiced
under Philippine laws, which shall be structured appropriately to conform with the nature of
the varying assets, cash flows and business objectives of the Enterprise as well as to provide
adequate security and incentives for the investors.

e. Asset Pool Formation . The usufruct rights of the land holders and the assets and receipts of the
entire project or Trust Enterprise shall constitute the Asset Pool of the enterprise. These assets
shall be placed under the trusteeship service of a reputable banking institution.

f. Approval of Land Rights Conveyance . The conveyance of usufruct rights over landholdings to
a Farmers Trust shall be approved by DAR or DENR depending on land jurisdiction, and shall
bind the government to the terms of the conveyance for the period of the Trust arrangement.

g. Enterprise Business Plan . The project shall be governed in accordance with an approved and
disclosed Enterprise Business Plan, which shall show the viability of the project and govern
the implementation, receipts and disbursement of funds, recovery/payment of investments and
distribution of the revenue/profits to the Parties to the Trust.

h. Project Participation Certificates . The Farmers Trust shall issue Project Participation Certificates
to private investors, backed up by the Trust’s asset pool.

i. Guaranty Coverage . The Project Participation Certificates issued by the Farmers Trust shall be
extended appropriate guaranty coverage by the Quedancor.

j. Private Nature of the Funds . The funds of the Trust shall be private in nature and thus, shall
be accounted and treated as private funds in accordance with generally accepted auditing rules
and standards.

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k. Insurance Coverage and Exit Option . The Farmers Trust shall provide insurance protection
to participating farmers and other groups in case of force majeure or bad management by
enterprise administrators by ensuring that important decisions made by the Trust are duly
consulted with all participants of the trust arrangement. The Farmers Trust shall also provide
an exit option to the Parties.

Section 3. Program Committee . A Program Committee is hereby constituted to coordinate
Program implementation and formulate guidelines and mechanisms that will, among others, provide
additional protection to participating farmers and identify risk levels and sharing arrangements of
Trust participants.

The Committee shall be chaired by the Secretary of Agrarian Reform with the Secretary of
Agriculture, Secretary of Finance, Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources and Quedancor
President as members. The Committee may call upon other departments and agencies for assistance in
the implementation of the Program.

Section 4. Funding Support for the Program . The DOF and its attached agencies are hereby
directed to extend their support to the capital formation strategies and measures that may be
undertaken for the Farmers’ Trust Development Fund, and to find ways and means as may be legally
feasible to enlarge and strengthen the guaranty capability of Quedancor.

a. Department of Finance . Pursuant to the objectives of the DOF to pump prime or catalyze
investments and economic activity in the agricultural sector, the department is hereby
authorized to provide assistance in the following areas:

(1) Project Preparation and Start-up Fund

To support the interim requirements needed to firm up, document and start-up the specific
projects that form the basis of the Farmers Trust Development Fund, the DOF is authorized
to provide funding for these requirements.

(2) Farmers Trust Development Fund and Farmers Trust Guaranty Fund

To catalyze and support the establishment of the Farmers Trust Development Fund and the
Farmers Trust Guaranty Fund, the DOF is authorized to provide funds and coordinate with
other agencies, particularly the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, for other incentives needed.

(3) Sovereign Guaranty

The DOF is authorized to issue the sovereign guaranty of the Republic of the Philippines in
accordance with this issuance and the charter of Quedancor.

b. The Farmers Trust Development Fund . The DAR, in coordination with the DOF, shall cause
the establishment of the Farmers Trust Development Fund under a Special Purpose Vehicle
(SPV), created according to and based upon an acceptable and viable project as presented
in an Enterprise Business Plan and audited with due diligence. The SPV shall issue Farm
Development Trust Certificates, the proceeds of which shall finance designated Farmers Trust
Enterprises or purchase the Project Participation Certificates thereof. The purchase of the Farm
Development Trust Certificates by banking institutions shall be deemed as compliance with the
Agri-Agra law under the alternative compliance mechanism of PD 717.

c. The Farmers Trust Guaranty Fund . The Quedancor is authorized to establish a Farmers Trust
Guaranty Fund to support the Program and guaranty the securities issued by the Farmers Trust
Development Fund in accordance with Section 23 of RA 7393 (Quedancor charter).

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Section 5. Role of Quedan and Rural Credit Guarantee Corporation . The Quedancor shall extend
utmost guaranty coverage support for Project Participation Certificates issued for DAR-sponsored
Farm Development Trust Enterprises, as may be legally feasible and in consonance with the broadened
mandate of Quedancor under AFMA as well as its original mandate.

Section 6. Agri-Agra Compliance . The purchase of Farmers Trust Certificates that may be issued
for the financing of Farmers Trust Enterprises take on the nature of loans extended to the enterprise,
which represent the associated interests of the members and/or the joint venture.

The Project Participation Certificates, when duly covered by the Quedancor guaranty system,
merit treatment as eligible securities for Agri-Agra law compliance. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas
shall provide the necessary implementing rules and official issuances for guidance and compliance by
banking institutions. Additional incentives in the form of additional eligibilities of the securities as
bank reserves, liquidity reserves and others may be considered.

Section 7. Applicability of the Trust Mechanism to Other Rural Sector Activities . The Trust
mechanism as described and authorized herein may be applied with appropriate modifications to
fisheries, pasture lands, forest lands and other productive enterprises suited for consolidation.

Flolders of agricultural lands under titled ownership or long-term lease from government under
pasture, forestry or other arrangements, may join or initiate a Farmers Trust.

Such endeavors shall be subject to the approval of the DAR, DENR or DA, depending on the land
jurisdiction.

Section 8. Repealing; Clause . All issuances, executive and administrative orders, rules and
regulations or parts thereof which are inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed or modified
accordingly.

Section 9. Effectivity . This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

Done in the City of Manila, this 27 th day of September, in the year of our Ford, nineteen hundred
and ninety nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). / Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 152

PROVIDING FOR THE ACTIVATION OF THE CENTRAL EAST ASIA GROWTH CIRCLE
PROGRAM AS AN ECONOMIC AND DIPLOMATIC INITIATIVE AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

WHEREAS, the Government recognizes the global trend where different economies are
liberalizing economic relations in trade and investment and the resulting need for the country’s
products and services to be globally competitive;

WHEREAS, different economies have adopted the strategy of forming regional economic
cooperation blocs to strengthen their respective economies, such as the Brunei Indonesia Malaysia
Philippines (Mindanao) - East Asia Growth Area (or BIMP-EAGA);

WHEREAS, the countries across the South China Sea, to the east and to the north of the
Philippines, which are the Philippines (North Luzon), China, Hongkong, Japan, South Korea and
Taiwan, comprise the economic heartland of Asia, where Japan, South Korea, Hongkong and Taiwan
are countries rich in capital and advanced technology, where China is a huge market and where the
Philippines is rich in minerals, raw materials, natural and human resources;

WHEREAS, these economic complementarities can be harnessed through the formation or
activation of a regional economic cooperation bloc which will convert the region into an economic
powerhouse and provide significant economic benefits to the member countries;

WHEREAS, the aim of this concept is to increase trade and investments through an improved
business climate, with the ultimate target of creating new jobs and livelihood opportunities for the
ordinary Filipino in the region;

WHEREAS, the national government has taken the initial steps in making the country, specifically
the four (4) administrative regions North of the National Capital Region, hereinafter referred to as the
North Luzon, namely: Regions 1, 2, 3, and the Cordillera Administrative Region, ready to meet the
challenges of a globally competitive environment through economic integration.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. THE CREATION OF THE CENTRAL EAST ASIA GROWTH CIRCLE
PROGRAM. There is hereby created under the Office of the President, a program which is initially
to be called the Central East Asia Growth Circle and hereinafter called the CEA-GC, and which shall
promote and encourage the active and extensive economic cooperation of the economies above-
mentioned in the area of the South China Sea.

SEC. 2. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY. The CEA-GC program shall be implemented by
adopting a strategy of phased progression in establishing economic cooperation with focus areas
within the Growth Circle resulting in a multilateral economic cooperation agreement among the
member countries.

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SEC. 3. PRESIDENTIAL ACTION OFFICER FOR CEA-GC. The President shall appoint a
Presidential Action Officer for the Central East Asia Growth Circle Program (PAO-CEAGC) with the
rank of undersecretary, and with the following duties and functions:

a) Promote foreign investments, trade and tourism activities in North Luzon which would
enhance socio-economic development in the area with focus on but not limited to developing
linkages with countries in the Central East Asia Growth Circle;

b) Coordinate the related activities of concerned departments, RDC’s and specialized government
development agencies in North Luzon, and ensure their active, but coordinated participation in
the program;

c) Mobilize private sector participation in all activities of the program;

d) Cause the preparation of economic and feasibility studies, and explore sources of financing
of priority programs and projects, whether governmental or private that will support and
encourage the active participation of the North Luzon integrated economy in the program;

e) Advocate to the constituents of North Luzon, their elected executives and representatives
in Congress and the National Government, national policies which will foster the active
participation of North Luzon, in such policy areas as banking, investment and lending by
financial institutions, transport and telecommunication, infrastructure, export of agricultural
and other products, tourism, environment, reforestation, education, science and technology
and human resource development;

f) Negotiate for sources of funds to include the Overseas Development Assistance on a bilateral
or multilateral basis in accordance with existing rules and regulations;

g) Provide the machinery for extending the necessary planning, management and technical
assistance to prospective and existing investors in North Luzon;

h) Receive and administer donations, contributions, grants, requests or gifts in cash or in kind
from foreign governments, international agencies, private entities, and contribute to the
development of North Luzon, subject to existing laws, rules and regulations and;

i) As the Presidential Action Officer for CEA-GC, he shall exercise administrative and technical
supervision over the Program;

j) Appoint the officers and staff of the CEA-GC Program Secretariat, and ensure that it performs
its functions and achieves the Program’s objectives;

k) The PAO-CEAGC shall submit to the President, quarterly reports on its accomplishments and
activities.

SEC. 4. THE ADVISORY COUNCIL. The PAO-CEAGC shall have an Advisory Council, which
shall have the following functions:

a) To advise the PAO-CEAGC on the different aspects of the program;

b) To ensure that the goals and policies of the PAO-CEAGC are consistent with overall national
development goals and policies;

c) To ensure that programs of PAO-CEAGC are consistent with regional and local development
plans and programs.

SEC. 5. THE MEMBERS OF THE ADVISORY COUNCIL. The Advisory Council shall be
composed of the following:

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a) The Executive Secretary as Chairman;

b) Secretary, Department of Trade and Industry as Vice-Chairman;

c) Secretary, Socio-Economic Planning;

d) Secretary, Department of Tourism;

e) Secretary, Department of Foreign Affairs;

f ) Secretary, Department of Transportation and Communications;

g) Secretary, Department of Agriculture;

h) The Presidential Assistant for North Luzon;

i) The Presidential Adviser for Development Administration;

j) The Chairman of the Regional Development Councils or similar bodies of the aforementioned
Regions and;

k) Two private sector representatives from each region of North Luzon chosen by and from
among the private sector representatives of the concerned Regional Development Councils;

l) One Congressional Representative from each region of North Luzon who shall be chosen by
and from among the Congressional Representatives in the region.

m) One Governor from each region of North Luzon who shall be chosen by and from among the
Governors in the region;

n) One City Mayor chosen by and from among the City Mayors of North Luzon;

o) The Administrator or equivalent official of all government corporations, commissions,
development authorities and like organizations based in the four regions such as, but not
limited to, the following:

North Luzon Growth Commission, Presidential Commission for the Central Luzon Growth
Corridor, Cagayan Special Economic Zone Authority, Ifugao Terraces Commission, Lingayen
Gulf Commission, Vigan Heritage Commission, Clark Economic Zone Authority, Agno River
Basin Development Commission, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, Clark Development
Corporation, John Hay Poro-Point Development Corporation.

The composition of the Advisory Council may be expanded when necessary.

SEC. 6. TECHNICAL SUPPORT STAFF OF THE PAO-CEAGC. A Program Office for CEAGC
shall be constituted to assist the PAO-CEAGC in implementing the program. It shall be headed by a
Program Director to be appointed by the President upon the recommendation of the PAO-CEAGC.
Additional technical and administrative staff from the National Economic Development Authority,
Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Tourism and other
government agencies and institutions may also be detailed or seconded to the Program Office as
necessary.

SEC. 7. ROLE OF NATIONAL LINE AGENCIES, LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS, GOCC’s,
NGO’s. Concerned national line agencies in the regions, local government units, development
authorities and special project offices, government owned and controlled corporations, non-
government organizations/the private sector, shall, as appropriate, serve as implementing entities of
activities related to the CEAGC program. These related activities are inclusive of, but not limited to
the organization of: trade/investment/tourism fairs and missions, business conventions and forums,
technical working group meetings, senior officials’ meetings, etc.

SEC. 8. FUNDING. The Department of Budget and Management is hereby directed to release
from the Presidential Contingent Fund, an initial lump sum funding of P18, 116, 833. OS for the
organization, and the administrative and internal operational requirements of the Presidential Action

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Office - CEAGC, for the period September to December 1999. The additional budget for the year
2000 shall be sourced from the Presidential Contingent Fund or any other fund within the Office of
the President. Thereafter, the appropriations for the continued operations of the PAO-CEAGC shall be
included in the annual general appropriations bill submitted to congress.

SEC. 9. IMPLEMENTING AUTHORITY. The PAO-CEAGC is hereby authorized to promulgate
the necessary rules and regulations to implement this Executive Order.

SEC. 10. EFFECTIVITY. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately. Provisions of existing
executive orders, rules and regulations inconsistent with this executive order are hereby superseded by
this issuance.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 28 th day of September, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 153

AUTHORIZING THE UTILIZATION OF OFFSHORE AREAS NOT COVERED BY APPROVED
MINING PERMITS AND CONTRACTS AS SOURCES OF DREDGEFILL MATERIALS FOR
GOVERNMENT RECLAMATION PROJECTS AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

WHEREAS, the 1987 Constitution provides that all lands of the public domain, waters,
minerals, coal, petroleum and other natural resources are owned by the State and that the exploration,
development and utilization of natural resources shall be under the full control and supervision of the
State;

WHEREAS, Section 4 of Republic Act (R.A.) No. 7942, otherwise known as the Philippine
Mining Act of 1995, provides that mineral resources are owned by the State; that the exploration,
development, utilization and processing thereof shall be under the State’s full control and supervision
and that the State may directly undertake such activities;

WHEREAS, Section 8 of R.A. No. 7942 provides that the Department of Environment and
Natural Resources (DENR) shall be the primary government agency responsible for the conservation,
management, development and proper use of the State’s mineral resources including those in
reservations, watershed areas and lands of the public domain;

WHEREAS, pursuant to Executive Order No. 786 dated 19 March 1982, the Natural Resources
Development Corporation (NRDC) as a government corporation and corporate arm of the DENR is
mandated to help promote the development of the country’s natural resources;

WHEREAS, Section 9 of R. A. No. 7942 provides that the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB)
shall have direct charge in the administration and disposition of mineral lands and mineral resources,
both inland and offshore;

WHEREAS, Presidential Decree (P.D.) Nos. 3 and 3-A provides that reclamation of areas under
water is limited to the National Government or any person authorized by it under a proper contract;

WHEREAS, pursuant to P.D. No. 1084 and Executive Order No. 525, the Public Estates
Authority (PEA) has been created and designated as the agency primarily responsible for integrating,
directing and coordinating all reclamation projects for and on behalf of the National Government;

WHEREAS, in P.D. No. 1084, the PEA is authorized to reclaim land, including foreshore and
submerged areas, by dredging, filling or other means, and to acquire reclaimed land;

WHEREAS, sand, gravel and other dredgefill materials from offshore submerged lands are highly
suitable raw materials for reclamation projects of the PEA and other civil works related to government
projects;

WHEREAS, it is in the public interest to prioritize government projects to enhance the delivery of
services vital to the Government’s economic and social development programs;

WHEREAS, it is very necessary to ensure adequate, low-cost and continuous supply of
raw materials in order not to hamper or delay the implementation of projects implemented by the
Government, or large-scale projects that involve the interests of the State;

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WHEREAS, offshore areas constitute a fragile environment such that any mining operation
therein can cause environmental impacts unless the appropriate safeguards are set in place under the
close supervision of the DENR.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Authority to Utilize Areas Not Covered by Approved Mining Permits/ Contracts as
Borrow Areas for Reclamation Projects. Considering that existing and future reclamation projects are
deemed vital to the country’s socio-economic development, the Government thru the DENR, NRDC
and PEA, has the right to utilize the areas not covered by approved mining permits/contracts, including
areas covered by pending mining applications, as borrow areas for dredgefill materials for such
reclamation projects.

Surveys, sampling, site selection, dredging, and related operations in borrow areas shall be subject
to monitoring by the DENR, for compliance with existing mining and environmental laws, rules and
regulations, and other applicable guidelines.

SEC. 2. Responsibilities of the PEA and the DENR. The PEA shall be responsible for the approval
of bids for contracts of work for reclamation projects: Provided, That the winning bidder shall have
the priority for the use of identified borrow areas, subject to the qualification requirements under R.A.
No. 7942 regarding the rights to explore, develop, utilize and dispose of mineral resources: Provided
further, That should the said winning bidder fail to meet such qualification, the DENR thru the NRDC
shall be the permittee to undertake the quarry operations in the borrow areas. For this purpose, NRDC
may avail of the services of service contractor(s).

The PEA or its contractor(s) may undertake the identification of such borrow areas, subject
to the verification and approval by the DENR, taking into account the appropriate guidelines to be
formulated by the DENR.

Borrow areas which are not utilized for any existing or proposed reclamation projects or
programs of PEA, shall be within the jurisdiction of the DENR. The DENR-MGB shall be solely
responsible for the approval of mining right applications over such areas.

SEC. 3. Taxes, Royalties and Fees. Save in cases provided by law, taxes and royalties shall be
collected from the permittees and/or contractors/subcontractors. Likewise, the DENR or thru NRDC
is authorized to collect management, service, environmental user’s and other fees from the permittees
and/or contractors/subcontractors. Such fees shall be shared as follows: 40% to NRDC; 40% to PEA
and 20% to Local Government Unit(s) concerned.

SEC. 4. Implementing Rules and Regulations. The DENR and the PEA shall formulate and issue
the necessary rules and regulations to implement this Order.

SEC. 5. Repealing and Amending Clause. All orders, rules and regulations or parts thereof which
are inconsistent with any of the provisions of this Order are hereby repealed or amended accordingly.

SEC. 6. Effectivity. This Order takes effect fifteen (15) days upon publication in a newspaper of
general circulation.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 30 th day of September, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 154

ADJUSTING THE DIVIDEND RATE OF MANILA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AUTHORITY
ON ITS 1998 NET EARNINGS PURSUANT TO SECTION 5 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7656

WHEREAS, Section 1 of Republic Act No. 7656 provides that:

“Section 1. Declaration of Policy. It is hereby declared the policy of the State that in order for

the National Government to realize additional revenues, government-owned and/or-controlled

corporations, without impairing their viability and the purposes for which they have been

established, shall share a substantial amount of their net earnings to the National Government.”

WHEREAS, to support the viability and mandate of Manila International Airport Authority
(MIAA), its liquidity, retained earnings positions and medium term plans and programs were
considered in the determination of the reasonable dividend rate of said corporation on its 1998 net
earnings;

WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 5 of RA 7656, the Secretary of Finance recommended the
adjustment on the percentage of annual net earnings that shall be declared by the MIAA in the interest
of national economy and general welfare;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue of
the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. The percentage of net earnings to be declared and remitted by MIAA as dividend
to the National Government as provided for under Section 3 of Republic Act 7656 is adjusted from at
least fifty percent (50%) to twenty-five percent (25%).

SEC. 2. The adjusted dividend rate provided for under Section 1 is only applicable to the 1998 net
earnings of MIAA.

SEC. 3. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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Done in the City of Manila, this 1st day of October, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety-nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 155

ABOLISHING THE COUNCIL FOR INVESTMENTS IN TRADE, INDUSTRY, TOURISM,
AGRICULTURE, NATURAL RESOURCES, TRANSPORTATION, COMMUNICATIONS AND
SERVICES AND REFOCUSING AND STRENGTHENING THE INVESTMENT
ONE-STOP ACTION CENTER

WHEREAS, investment generation is needed to sustain our development efforts;

WHEREAS, there is need to enhance the coordination and complementation efforts of
government to promote investments and provide assistance to current and potential investors;

WHEREAS, Executive Order No. 136, s. 1987, created a Council for Investments in Trade,
Industry, Tourism, Agriculture, Natural Resources, Transportation, Communications and Services to
coordinate investment development efforts of the government and promote the country as an attractive
investment area in identified sectors;

WHEREAS, EO 136 further created an Investment One-Stop Action Center (OSAC) under the
Board of Investments to provide assistance to local and foreign investors by providing information,
advice, and guidance on pertinent laws and procedures relative to doing business in the Philippines and
to accept and act on applications for investments;

WHEREAS, pursuant to the Cabinet agreement on 18 August 1992, investment promotion units
were established in key government offices to assist the OSAC in their respective areas;

WHEREAS, the President has continuing authority to reorganize the administrative structure of
the Office of the President pursuant to Executive Order No. 292 (Administrative Code of 1987);

WHEREAS, under Section 77 of the General Provisions of Republic Act No. 8745 or FY 1999
General Appropriations Act, the President may direct changes in the organization and key positions in
any department, bureau or agency; and

WHEREAS, there is need to refocus and strengthen the OSAC in order to be more responsive to
the needs of investors in view of the highly competitive global environment.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law and the Constitution, do hereby order the
following:

SECTION 1. ABOLISHING THE COUNCIL FOR INVESTMENTS. The Council
for Investments in Trade, Industry, Tourism, Agriculture, Natural Resources, Transportation,
Communications and Services, created pursuant to EO 136, s. 1987, is hereby abolished.

SECTION 2. REFOCUSING AND STRENGTHENING THE OSAC. The Investment One-Stop
Action Center of the Board of Investments, created pursuant to EO 136, s, 1987, is hereby refocused
to provide facilitation and problem-solving services to investors. The OSAC is also hereby strengthened
through a more coordinated mechanism to provide comprehensive service delivery to investors and a
more responsive organization to address investor concerns.

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SECTION 3. FUNCTIONS OF THE OSAC. The OSAC shall serve as clearing house for potential
investors and undertake due diligence on the capabilities of potential investors. In this regard, the
OSAC shall undertake the following functions to assist investors with the desired credentials:

a. Provide advise, guidance and information on various laws, rules and regulations governing
investments and conduct of business in the Philippines, including incentives that can be availed
of;

b. Serve as the “ombudsman” of investors and act as a complaints and action center regarding the
government to address the concerns of investors;

c. Assist in identifying investment opportunities;

d. Facilitate the processing of all investment-related requirements by concerned agencies (e.g.,
licenses and permits, importation, taxation, etc.) by ensuring that all frontline agencies perform
their tasks within prescribed standards and parameters;

e. Improve time and quality standards for processing of investment-related papers in government
agencies; and

f. Perform such other functions as may be directed by the President and/or the Secretary of Trade
and Industry.

SECTION 4. ORGANIZATIONAE SET-UP. The OSAC shall be under the direct supervision
of the Secretary of Trade and Industry. It shall be headed by an Executive Director and assisted by a
Deputy Executive Director who shall be appointed by the President, upon the recommendation of the
Secretary of Trade and Industry. A full-time staff complement shall also be appointed to ensure the
performance of its functions.

SECTION 5. COORDINATING MECHANISM AND ESTABLISHMENT OF INVESTMENT
PROMOTION UNITS. The OSAC shall establish a coordinating mechanism among concerned
government agencies and private sector organizations. The OSAC shall also coordinate closely with
other inter-agency bodies in addressing investor concerns.

For this purpose and to further enhance the services of the OSAC, Investment Promotion Units
(IPUs) shall be established in concerned government agencies. The IPUs shall coordinate closely with
the OSAC and shall be part of a network providing current and prospective investors with answers to
technical and legal inquiries and fast action on the approval of investment-related permits and licenses.

SECTION 6. FUNDING. The Secretary of Budget and Management is hereby directed to
allocate funds from the Organizational Adjustment Fund or from any available fund under the annual
appropriations of the government to support the OSAC.

Funds for the operations of the OSAC shall be released through the Department of Trade
and Industry, subject to the submission of the Staffing Pattern and Work and Financial Plan to the
Department of Budget and Management.

SECTION 7. REPORTING SYSTEM. The OSAC, through the Secretary of Trade and Industry,
shall submit quarterly reports to the Office of the President on steps taken to address investor concerns.

SECTION 8. REPEALING CLAUSE. All issuances, orders, rules and regulations or parts thereof
which are inconsistent with the provisions of this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified
accordingly.

SECTION 9. EFFECTIVITY. This Executive Order takes effect immediately.

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DONE, in the City of Manila, this 5th day of October, in the Year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety-nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 156

CREATING A SPECIAL TASK FORCE TO REVIEW, INVESTIGATE, AND GATHER EVIDENCE
NECESSARY TO SUCCESSFULLY PROSECUTE IRREGULARITIES COMMITTED AT THE
BUREAU OF INTERNAL REVENUE, BUREAU OF CUSTOMS AND OTHER GOVERNMENT
OFFICES OR AGENCIES UNDER OR ATTACHED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE.

WHEREAS, there are prevalent reports and public perception of graft and corruption principally
in the Bureau of Internal Revenue and Bureau of Customs;

WHEREAS, there are on-going investigations in the One-Stop-Shop Inter-Agency Tax Credit and
Duty Drawback Center which require the full support and assistance of the various agencies of the
government;

WHEREAS, graft and corruption deprive the public coffers of much needed revenue, demoralize
the government work force and undermine public confidence in the government;

WHEREAS, this administration is committed to fight graft and corruption;

WHEREAS, there is an urgent need to form an inter-agency task force with the sole purpose of
addressing graft and corruption committed in agencies under or attached to the Department of Finance
and the prosecution of erring government personnel and their accomplices.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue
of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order the following:

Section 1. Creation. There is hereby created a Special Task Force Against Irregularities Committed
in Agencies Attached to or under the Department of Finance under the immediate control of and
reporting directly to the President.

Sec. 2. Composition. The Task Force shall be composed of the Executive Secretary, Undersecretary
of Finance Solomon S. Cua, Undersecretary of Justice Antonio M. Llorente, Executive Director Alberto
Salanga of the One-Stop-Shop Tax Credit, Department of Finance and Gen. Panfilo Lacson, Chief of
the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Task Force.

Sec. 3. Assistance from Other Government Agencies. All government offices, agencies and
instrumentalities, particularly the Bureau of Internal Revenue, the Bureau of Customs, the National
Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Immigration and Deportation, the Philippine National Police,
the Economic Intelligence and Investigation Bureau, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and
the Garment and Textile Export Board are hereby directed to assist the Task Force and shall provide
the necessary assistance in the form of vehicles, equipment, workspace or personnel on detail or
secondment when so requested by the Task Force. All government offices shall likewise provide all
information required by the Task Force as if such information was requested by the President himself.

Sec. 4. Powers, Duties and Functions. The Task Force shall have the following powers, duties and
functions:

a) To investigate and gather evidence against individuals, corporations and other entities
suspected of having committed irregularities at the Bureau of Internal Revenue, the Bureau of

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Customs, the Inter-Agency Tax Credit and Duty Drawback Center and other agencies under or
attached to the Department of Finance;

b) To gather and collate the required quantum of evidence and file the appropriate criminal, civil
or administrative complaint before the appropriate court, administrative body, or agency;

c) To recommend the settlement of cases for approval of the President, subject to appropriate
rules on the settlement of claims by the government;

d) To assist the prosecuting agency towards the successful prosecution of cases;

e) To hire such personnel on a project or contractual basis as may be necessary to achieve its
purposes;

f) To receive donations, bequest, and other gratuitous benefits which will solely used to attain the
objectives of the Task Force;

g) To coordinate with other government agencies, non-government organizations, international
organizations and other individuals or entities as may be found necessary by the Task Force;

h) To recommend to the President the formation of such special investigating or prosecuting
groups to be assigned to specific agencies or cases as may be necessary;

i) To perform any and all acts as may be necessary to successfully implement this Order, subject
to the control and supervision of the President.

Sec. 5. Personnel. The Task Force shall be assisted by such personnel as it may select. The
Department of Budget and Management is hereby directed to automatically provide without reduction
all requests for funds necessary for the transfer, detail, secondment or opening of personnel co-terminus
with the project of the Task Force, including request for the hiring of personnel or contractual or
consultancy basis.

Sec. 6. Term. The Task Force shall exist for a period of two (2) years from effectively hereof, after
which its functions shall be turned over to the Department of Justice, unless there are circumstances
which warrant the extension of its existence.

Sec. 7. Funding. Subject to the usual audit, the Task Force shall be provided with One Million
Pesos (P1.0M) per month to be drawn from the One-Stop-Shop Inter-agency Tax Credit and Duty
Drawback Center.

Sec. 8. Penalty for Failure to Assist. Failure by the appropriate government agency or personnel to
provide assistance to the Task Force shall be deemed an administrative offense and shall be dealt with
in accordance with applicable law and regulations.

Sec. 9. Administrative Powers. The Office of the President may adopt such rules and regulations,
issue such orders, and organize or reorganize the personnel of the Task Force to successfully implement
this Order.

Sec. 10. Reportorial Requirements. The Task Force shall submit a quarterly report of its funds
and activities to the President.

Sec. 11. Effectivity. This Administrative Order shall take effect immediately.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 7th day of October, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety-nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office

Presidential

of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 157
REVOKING EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 45, SERIES OF 1998

WHEREAS, a Presidential Anti-Smuggling Task Force was created to investigate and prosecute
crimes involving large scale smuggling and other frauds committed against the Tariff and Customs
Code as amended and other related laws;

WHEREAS, in the exigency of the service, there is need to abolish the said Presidential Task
Force; and,

WHEREAS, the Administrative Code of 1987 empowers the President with the continuing
authority to reorganize the Office of the President;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

Section 1. Executive Order No. 45, Series of 1998, entitled “Creating a Presidential Anti-
Smuggling Task Force to Investigate and Prosecute Crimes Involving Large-Scale Smuggling and Other
Frauds Upon Customs and Providing Measures to Expedite Seizure Proceedings” is hereby revoked.

Section 2. The remaining amount of its initial allocation of Twenty Million Pesos not spent shall
revert back to the President’s Contingent Fund.

Section 3. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 9th day of September, in the year of our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety-nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Zamora

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 158

AMENDING EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 80 DATED MARCH 05, 1999 BY REVERTING THE
COMMISSION ON FILIPINO LANGUAGE TO THE ADMINISTRATIVE SUPERVISION

OF THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT

WHEREAS, Republic Act No. 7104 dated August 14, 1991, creating the Commission on
Filipino Language was enacted by Congress pursuant to the mandate of Section 9, Article XIV of the
Constitution;

WHEREAS, among the agencies which were transferred to the National Commission for Culture
and the Arts for policy and program coordination, only the Commission on Filipino Language was
created by virtue of a Constitutional mandate;

WHEREAS, the special recognition given to it by the fundamental law of the land significantly
implies its distinct role to develop, propagate and preserve Filipino and other languages;

WHEREAS, in order to effectively pursue the said tasks, the Commission must be returned to the
administrative supervision of the Office of the President.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue of
the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION I. Section I of Executive Order No. 80 dated March 05, 1999 is hereby amended to
read as follows:

“Section 1. Transfer. - The following cultural agencies are hereby transferred from OP and

DECS to NCCA, which shall exercise administrative supervision over them:

a. Cultural Center of the Philippines;

b. National Historical Institute;

c. National Library;

d. National Museum; and

e. Records Management and Archives Office.”

Section 2. The Commission on Filipino Language shall return to the Office of the President for
administrative supervision.

Section 3. All executive orders, rules and regulations or parts thereof contrary to or inconsistent
with this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

Section 4. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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Done in the City of Manila, Philippines, this 11 th day of October, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen
hundred and ninety-nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 159

DECLARING MASS HOUSING AS CENTERPIECE PROGRAM OF THE ESTRADA
ADMINISTRATION AND CONSTITUTING THE PRESIDENTIAL COMMISSION

FOR MASS HOUSING

WHEREAS, under the “Erap Para sa Mahirap ” vision of the Estrada Administration, the
government identified poverty eradication as the central focus of all its development programs and
interventions;

WHEREAS, the government recognizes that shelter is a basic need for which the poor, particularly
in the urban areas, require assistance;

WHEREAS, in addition to direct provision of housing for the poor, mass housing projects also
generate multiple economic benefits for the poor, such as provision of employment and promotion of
entrepreneurial activities;

WHEREAS, housing projects can also be used to pump-prime the economy and stimulate the
growth of various industries; and

WHEREAS, the government has identified mass housing as one of the major components of the
Poverty Eradication Program of the Administration.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by Law and the Constitution, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. DECLARING MASS HOUSING AS CENTERPIECE PROGRAM OF THE
ESTRADA ADMINISTRATION. In line with the pro-poor and pro-business orientation of the Estrada
Administration, mass housing is hereby declared as a centerpiece program of the government. The
Philippine Medium Term Development Plan shall be realigned to support this centerpiece program.

SEC. 2. CONSTITUTION OF THE PRESIDENTIAL COMMISSION FOR MASS
HOUSING. To fastrack the implementation of mass housing projects, stimulate economic activity,
and provide for the needs of the poor, there is hereby constituted a Presidential Commission for Mass
Housing (hereinafter referred to as the Commission) to oversee the implementation of the centerpiece
program.

1. Composition

The Commission shall be chaired by the President who shall also act as the “housing czar.” The

Commission shall be co-chaired by the Presidential Adviser on Low-Cost and Open Market

Housing and the Presidential Adviser on Socialized Housing, with the following as members:

a. Chairman, Senate Committee on Urban Planning, Housing and Resettlement

b. Chairman, House Committee on Housing and Urban Development

c. Chief Executive Officer, HLURB

d. President, NHMFC

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e. President, HIGC

f. General Manager, NHA

g. Chief Executive Officer, HDMF

h. President, GSIS

i. Administrator, SSS

j. President, DBP

m. President, LBP

n. President, League of Governors

o. President, League of Cities

p. President, League of Municipalities

All government departments, agencies, bureaus and instrumentalities, including Government-
Owned-and Controlled Corporations (e.g. PEA, BCDA, PNR, among others), implementing
housing projects are directed to seek the clearance and approval of the Commission on their
respective housing and related projects.

2. Functions . The Commission shall undertake the following:

a. Formulate the overall framework and implementation plan (to include targets and
timetables) of the centerpiece program, including its components;

b. Plan and secure the necessary budgetary, technical and human resources support for the
effective implementation of mass housing projects;

c. Formulate strategies and incentives to encourage private financial institutions to provide for
the financial backbone of the centerpiece program;

d. Ensure speedy implementation of mass housing projects;

e. Identify major problem areas in the implementation of mass housing projects and undertake
issue resolution as necessary;

f. Prioritize the provision of mass housing for the requirements of major infrastructure projects
with right-of-way problems such as mass transit, railway, power, and similar projects;

g. Ensure speedy implementation of housing for teachers, police, armed forces, and
government employees; and

h. Prepare and implement a communication plan to generate the support of the various
stakeholders for the centerpiece program.

3. Secretariat . A full-time Secretariat shall be created to provide technical and administrative
services to the Commission. The Chairman of the Commission shall likewise have a full-time
Secretariat to be composed of personnel from the PMS and HUDCC.

The HUDCC shall provide staff support to the Presidential Adviser on Low-Cost and
Open Market Housing and the Presidential Adviser on Socialized Housing. Administrative
requirements such as budget, office space, office equipment, and the like shall be taken from
the existing resources of HUDCC and other housing agencies. All housing agencies are hereby
directed to provide assistance as may be needed.

SEC. 3. ASSISTANCE OF ALL CONCERNED AGENCIES. All concerned government agencies
and local government units are hereby directed to extend their support and cooperation to the
Commission.

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SEC. 4. REITERATING THE ROLE OF HUDCC. Pursuant to Executive Order No. 90 (s. 1986),
HUDCC shall continue to focus on policy formulation and direction setting for the government’s
shelter program, while the Presidents/Chief Executive Officers of the key shelter agencies shall be
responsible and accountable for the implementation of their respective housing programs and projects.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 12 th day of October, in the Year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANAN PALACE
MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 160

REORGANIZING AND DESIGNATING THE MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL PARKS
DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE CREATED UNDER EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 30 DATED

JANUARY 14, 1963 AS AMENDED

WHEREAS, the National Parks Development Committee (NPDC), an attached agency to the
Department of Tourism is the principal office tasked to develop, administer, and manage the Rizal Park
in Ermita, Manila and other National Parks;

WHEREAS, in pursuit of the current administration’s program to develop tourist destinations
with the assistance of all concerned sectors, the composition of the NPDC be further amended to
include in its composition representatives from other government agencies;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue of
the powers vested in me by law do hereby order:

Section 1. The composition of the National Parks Development Committee (NPDC), created
under Executive Order no. 30 s.1963, as amended is hereby further amended, to be composed of the
following:

Secretary, Department of Tourism
Executive Director, NPDC
General Manager, Philippine Tourism Authority
Administrator, Intramuros Administration
Mayor, City of Manila

An Undersecretary of the Department of Public Works and
Highways, to be designated by the Secretary, DPWH
Executive Director, Philippine Convention and Visitors Corporation

Chairperson

Vice-Chairperson

Member

The Committee shall meet as frequently as necessary in order to review, revise, adopt and or
approve policies and guidelines recommended by the Executive Director.

Section 2. The Executive Director of the NPDC shall have the following powers and duties:

(a) To execute and administer the policies and measures adopted by the Committee;

(b) To act as Chief Executive Officer and directly manage and supervise the day to day operations
and internal administration of the NPDC, and sign all agreements and contracts entered into
for and in its behalf;

(c) To prepare the agenda for the meetings of, and to submit for the consideration of the members
of the Committee all policies and measures which he believes to be necessary to carry out its
purpose;

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(d) To prepare and submit an annual budget and necessary supplemental budgets for the
consideration of the members of the Committee;

(e) To appoint, discipline and remove, and define the duties of the NPDC’s personnel subject to
existing Civil Service Rules and Regulations; and

(f) To exercise and perform such other powers and duties as may be vested in him or assigned by
the Committee.

Section 3. The NPDC may coordinate with and seek the assistance of other agencies of the
government, and is further authorized to receive donations/grants from the private sector, subject to the
usual government accounting and auditing rules and regulations.

Section 4. All other laws, rules and regulations and executive issuances inconsistent with this
Executive Order are hereby deemed repealed or modified accordingly.

Section 5. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 13 th day of October, 1999.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 161

EXTENDING THE TERM OF EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 371 “PROCLAIMING A SPECIAL
ZONE OF PEACE AND DEVELOPMENT IN THE SOUTHERN PHILIPPINES AND
ESTABLISHING THEREFOR THE SOUTHERN PHILIPPINES COUNCIL FOR PEACE
AND DEVELOPMENT AND THE CONSULTATIVE ASSEMBLY”

WHEREAS, Congress has passed Republic Act 8753, “Resetting the Regular Elections for the
Elective Officials of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao provided for under Republic Act
8746 and for other purposes;”

WHEREAS, such postponement of the ARMM elections for one (1) year to the 2nd Monday of
September 2000 accords the government an opportunity to complete the implementation of Phase 1
of the 1996 GRP-MNLF Peace Agreement and ensure the passage of the amendatory law to RA 6734,
the Organic Act for Muslim Mindanao;

WHEREAS, this has also opened an opportunity to accelerate socio-economic development
programs in the SZOPAD, to include the ARMM provinces.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law and the Constitution, do hereby order the
following:

SECTION 1. EXTENDING THE EFFECTIVITY OF EO 371 s. 1996. The Special Zone of Peace
and Development (SZOPAD), the Southern Philippines Council for Peace and Development (SPCPD)
and the Consultative Assembly (CA) are hereby extended for a one year period corresponding to the
period covered by RA 8753.

SEC. 2. CONTINUITY OF ORGANIZATION, FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES.
The organization, functions and responsibilities of SPCPD and CA, as provided for in EO 371 shall
continue to be in force and effect in the period covered by this executive order.

SEC. 3. SPECIAL ROLE OF SPCPD WITH RESPECT TO DEVELOPMENT CONCERNS. With
respect to peace and development concerns in SZOPAD, the SPCPD shall, pursuant to the 1996 Final
Peace Agreement, undertake the following additional tasks:

a) Directly supervise offices and projects located in the Special Zone of Peace and Development
particularly the Southern Philippines Development Authority (SPDA), the Office of Muslim
Affairs (OMA) and the National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP) formerly Office of
the Southern Cultural Communities.

b) Task Forces such as the Basilan Development Task Force, the Central Mindanao Development
Task Force and the Sulu Development Task Force are also placed under the control and
supervision of SPCPD.

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SEC. 4. EFFECT ON EOCAE GOVERNMENT UNITS. Nothing in this Executive Order shall
effect the existence or diminish the powers and functions under existing laws of all local government
units in the SZOPAD, including the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

SEC. 5. FUNDING. Funds for the operation of SPCPD and the Consultative Assembly shall
continue to be sourced from the Office of the President and from such other funding sources as may be
recommended by the Department of Budget and Management.

SEC. 6. EFFECTIVITY CLAUSE. This Executive Order shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its
publication in two newspapers of national circulation.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 30 th day of September, in the year of Our Lord, Nineteen
Hundred and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999).
Presidential Management Staff.

[ Executive Order Nos.:

338]. Manila:

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MALACANAN PALACE
MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 162
REORIENTING THE FUNCTIONS AND OPERATIONS
OF THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

WHEREAS, the Philippine government recognizes that the development of the agriculture and
fisheries sector is the strategic key towards overall economic progress and the lasting solution to the
problems of poverty, environmental degradation and peace and order;

WHEREAS, the Department of Agriculture is the agency mandated by the Agriculture and
Fisheries Modernization Act of 1997 (AFMA) to lead in the inter-departmental efforts to modernize
Philippine agriculture and fisheries;

WHEREAS, the Congressional Commission on Agricultural Modernization which authored
AFMA intended to rationalize the agricultural bureaucracy in order to make it responsive to the
demands of global competitiveness and to honor its international trade agreements;

WHEREAS, AFMA calls for the focusing of the Department’s resources to productivity-enhancing
programs such as research, development and extension, irrigation and water management, development
and enforcement of product standards and food safety rules, and credit, marketing, information and
communication support services;

WHEREAS, under the AFMA, local government units (LGUs) are major partners in agricultural
development and modernization;

WHEREAS, prudent governance of the bureaucracy necessitates that the agricultural bureaucracy
be streamlined to ensure efficiency and effectiveness in the use of limited resources;

WHEREAS, under Section 20, Chapter 7, Title 1. Book III of Executive Order No. 292
(Administrative Code of 1987), the President of the Philippines is empowered to exercise such powers
and functions vested in him which are provided for under the laws;

WHEREAS, Section 79 of the General Provisions of RA 8745, directs heads of departments,
bureaus and agencies to scale down, phase out or abolish activities no longer essential in the delivery
of public services and provides that savings generated from the abolition, phasing out or scaling down
of unnecessary activities may be used by the departments, bureaus and agencies concerned for the
augmentation of their respective programs, projects and activities.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. Functional Reorientation Policy. To implement the aforementioned concerns, the
structure and organizations of the Department, its offices, bureaus, attached agencies and corporations
shall be re-oriented along functional lines and consistent with the principles, goals and objectives of the
AFMA.

SECTION 2. Organizational and Operational Strategies. To ensure the effective and efficient
implementation of the above functional thrusts, the Secretary of Agriculture shall review its existing

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structure, operational processes, systems and set-up, and determine appropriate mechanisms and
strategies, subject to existing organizational and staffing guidelines and standards. In compliance with
these requirements, the Secretary may:

1 . Group, integrate and merge agencies/units to ensure coordination of actions particularly in the
implementation of action programs of the Department;

2. Institutionalize a strategic work partnership with local government units to generate the desired
results in the implementation of devolved agricultural planning and extension activities; and

3. Strengthen the regional field units along functional lines to effect better coordination in the
delivery of services to the LGUS.

4. Expand and intensify mechanisms that will improve transparency in the operations of the
Department, its offices, bureaus and attached agencies and corporations and in the participation of
stakeholders in policy making and implementation.

5. Improve mechanisms of consultation with all departments and agencies concerned in the
implementation of AFMA.

In order to make the Department a more effective instrument in the delivery of services in
agriculture and fisheries, the Secretary of Agriculture may institute continuing operational/structural
adjustments consistent with its mandate.

SECTION 3. Preparation of the Agricultural Bureaucracy Restructuring Plan (ABRP). Based on
the functional reorientation and operational redirection, the Department shall prepare an Agricultural
Bureaucracy Restructuring Plan. The ABRP shall include the following:

1 . The reorientation in policies, functions, programs, activities and strategies;

2. The structural and organizational modifications with corresponding functions and activities by
organizational unit;

3. The staffing modifications, the presentation of existing and unfilled positions; and

4. The restructuring and realignment of the budget of the Department, its bureaus, and attached
agencies and corporations as a result of the streamlined set-up.

The DA shall submit the ABRP to the DBM for approval before implementing the proposed
changes.

SECTION 4. Redeployment of Personnel. Any personnel of the DA may be re-deployed in
accordance with the requirements of the revised organization structure and staffing pattern and
civil service rules and regulations. Such redeployment shall not result in diminution in rank and
compensation of affected personnel.

SECTION 5. No Dismissal. No personnel of the Department, its offices, bureaus and attached
agencies and corporations shall be laid off or dismissed as result of the implementation of this Executive
Order. However, personnel who voluntarily opt to be separated from the service as a consequence of
the implementation of this Executive Order shall be entitled to the benefits under existing laws. In
the case of those who are not covered by existing laws, they shall be entitled to separation benefits
equivalent to one month basic salary for every year of service or proportionate share thereof in
addition to the terminal fee benefits which he/she is entitled under existing laws.

SECTION 6. Funding. The financial resources required to implement the revised staffing pattern
shall be taken from funds available in the DA, including savings therein, provided that the necessary
organizational and staffing modifications shall not entail additional funds for Personal Services.

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SECTION 7. Use of Savings from Realignment. Following the approved ABRP, the Secretary
is hereby also authorized to use the savings from realignment for the early retirement program, for
upgrading of salaries of meritorious employees, for the education and training of personnel and the
provision for fellowships as well as for the upgrading of facilities.

SECTION 8. Reorganization Review Body. The Secretary shall be assisted by top-level
management including management and technical experts outside the Department in the reorganization
process. The employees association of the Department shall be represented in the review body.

SECTION 9. Implementing Authority. Following the approved ABRP, the DA Secretary, in
addition to his authority to implement the approved ABRP, is hereby authorized to determine the
agencies or attached agencies and corporations necessary to carry out the Department’s mandate and
reoriented roles as provided under the AFMA.

SECTION 10. Effectivity. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 16th day of October, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety-nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

BY THE PRESIDENT:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 163

MODIFYING THE NOMENCLATURE AND THE RATES OF IMPORT DUTY ON
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (IT) PRODUCTS UNDER SECTION 104 OF THE TARIFF
AND CUSTOMS CODE OF 1978 (PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1464, AS AMENDED)

WHEREAS, during the APEC meeting held in Manila in November 1996, the 18 APEC leaders
called for the conclusion of the Information Technology Agreement (ITA) by the first WTO Ministerial
Conference in a move to eliminate tariffs by the year 2000, with flexibility in the time frame for the
elimination of tariffs;

WHEREAS, on 13 December 1996, fourteen (14) economies signed in Singapore a Ministerial
Declaration on Trade in Information Technology Products, providing for the elimination/binding of
tariffs on IT products beginning 1 July 1997 and ending on 1 January 2000 with extended staging of
tariff reductions up to the year 2005 for developing countries;

WHEREAS, the Philippines formally signed the Information Technology Agreement (ITA) on
1 April 1997;

WHEREAS, with the Philippine Senate ratification of ITA 1 on 3 December 1998, the Philippines
can now implement its commitments under the said Agreement.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue of
the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. The articles specifically listed in “Annex A” hereof, as classified under Section 104
of the Tariff and Customs Code of 1978, as amended, shall be subject to the rates of import duty in
accordance with the schedule indicated opposite each article.

SEC. 2. The nomenclature and the rates of import duty on tariff headings not enumerated and
those listed but represented by the symbol x x x shall remain in force and effect.

SEC. 3. Upon the effectivity of this Executive Order, the articles specifically listed in the aforesaid
“Annex” which are entered in or withdrawn from warehouses in the Philippines for consumption shall
be levied the rates of duty herein presented.

SEC. 4. All other Presidential issuances, administrative rules and regulations, or parts thereof,
which are inconsistent with this Executive Order are hereby revoked or modified accordingly.

SEC. 5. This Executive Order shall take effect on 1 January 2000 following the complete
publication in two (2) newspapers of general circulation in the Philippines.

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Done in the City of Manila, this 18 th day of October, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 164

FACILITATING THE PREPAREDNESS OF PHILIPPINE GUN CLUB MEMBERS
FOR WORLD COMPETITION EVENTS

WHEREAS, Action/Practical Shooting is one wholesome sport for which Filipinos have
demonstrated a natural talent and great capacity to excel;

WHEREAS, one important venue for such sport is the “World Shoot 1999”, to be hosted by the
Philippines in CEBU;

WHEREAS, it is imperative that to prepare our Philippine entries, our local talents be screened
and chosen, and compete among themselves so that ultimately the best will represent and win top
honors for the country at said international competition;

WHEREAS, regular practice is necessary to properly hone and fine-tune the participants’ shooting
skills for them to ably compete at said world event;

WHEREAS, the standard calibers used in Action/Practical Shooting Event are .45, .40 and .38
Super for pistols and 38 Special /.357 Magnum / 44 Magnum for revolvers while the standard rifle
used in CAMP PERRY MATCHES are of the 5.56 and 7.62 calibers;

WHEREAS, every participant must have well-maintained shooting units of his choice where he
can practice at duly authorized shooting ranges;

WHEREAS, the shortage of duly authorized shooting ranges sometimes gives rise to improper
and dangerous target practices;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. The Philippine National Police is hereby directed to spearhead and expedite the
processing of applications for the establishment of gun clubs throughout the country.

SEC. 2. Subject to applicable laws and such rules and regulations as the Philippine National Police
may issue, every bonafide gun club member, provided he or she possesses none of the disqualifications
provided by law, may apply for the issuance of licenses to possess shooting units up to, but not to
exceed, .45 caliber for side arms and 5.56 and 7.62 for Semi-auto Competition rifles; Provided that no
such bonafide gun club member shall possess at any one time more than 15 units sidearms and 6 units
rifles, and 5,000 rounds of ammunition therefor, and Provided further that fully automatic models
shall not be so licensed.

SEC. 3. The Philippine National Police shall issue the necessary rules and regulations to implement
this order.

SEC. 4. All preceding circulars, letters-directive, and memoranda on the subject inconsistent with
this Executive Order are revoked and modified accordingly.

SEC. 5. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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Done in the City of Manila, this 19 th day of October, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety-nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 165

DIRECTING THE FORMULATION OF AN INSTITUTIONAL STRENGTHENING AND
STREAMLINING PROGRAM FOR THE EXECUTIVE BRANCH

WHEREAS, the “Re-engineering the Bureaucracy for Better Governance Program” is a priority
of the present Administration to develop an efficient, results-oriented and innovative bureaucracy that
will support effective governance and sustainable socio-economic growth;

WHEREAS, Section 79 of the General Provisions of the FY 1999 General Appropriations Act
directs heads of departments, bureaus, offices and agencies to identify their respective activities which
are no longer essential in the delivery of public services and which may be scaled down, phased-out or
abolished pursuant to Circulars or Orders issued for the purpose by the Office of the President;

WHEREAS, the government must continuously pursue streamlining and productivity-
enhancement programs to properly define the role of the government in the society; focus its efforts
primarily on basic governance functions; prioritize its programs and projects; enhance private sector
initiative and participation in development; and adopt simple and lean organization structures;

WHEREAS, the government aims to fast-track management and financial reforms to make the
bureaucracy more responsive to the needs of the general public and evolve efficient and effective
organizations operating within available resources;

WHEREAS, streamlining and productivity enhancement programs will generate permanent
savings that may be used to reward good performance through improved compensation in government
comparable with that of the private sector;

WHEREAS, there is a need to formulate short and long-term plans and programs for the
institutional strengthening and streamlining of the bureaucracy directed towards the re-engineering of
the Executive Branch.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by the powers vested in me by law, do hereby direct the formulation of an Institutional
Strengthening and Streamlining Program in accordance with the following provisions:

SECTION 1. INSTITUTIONAL STRENGTHENING AND STREAMLINING OF THE
EXECUTIVE BRANCH. The institutional strengthening and streamlining of the Executive Branch
shall be undertaken pursuant to the following objectives/strategies:

Define the role, scope, level, and focus of government intervention in the various sectors that
public resources can realistically support;

(b) Delineate sectoral activities among the government, business sector and civil society in the light
of the privatization effort;

(c) Achieve proper distribution of functions among levels of the government, given the progress
made in decentralizing services and devolving certain functions to LGUs;

(d) Eliminate unnecessary duplication, proliferation and overlapping of agency functions,
programs, projects and activities, and abolish those that are redundant, irrelevant and
outdated;

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(e) Strengthen organizational, financial and manpower support to key functions and priority
programs, projects and activities, through the appropriate re-focussing and re-allocation of
agency resources;

(f) Improve service delivery systems; and,

Strengthen standard organic support services including planning, information systems
management, finance and internal administration, as well as the integrated performance
management system in government.

SEC. 2. PRESIDENTIAL COMMITTEE ON EFFECTIVE GOVERNANCE. A Presidential
Committee on Effective Governance (PCEG) is hereby created to be composed of the Executive
Secretary as Chair, the Secretary of Budget and Management as Co-Chair, with the Director-General
of the National Economic and Development Authority, Chairman of the Civil Service Commission,
Secretary of Finance, and Head of the Presidential Management Staff, as members, to oversee and
coordinate the institutional reforms in the bureaucracy.

The PCEG shall specifically undertake the following functions:

(a) Study and investigate the present organization and operations of all departments, agencies and
entities of the Executive Branch, including government-owned and/or controlled corporations
and state universities and colleges;

(b) Prepare a Public Sector Institutional Strengthening and Streamlining Agenda that will establish
the framework, governing principles, guidelines and pacing for the entire institutional
development and streamlining processes which could be undertaken administratively;

(c) Manage technical assistance facilities which may be available for the purpose and approve the
grant of necessary technical assistance to agencies in the preparation and implementation of
the agency institutional strengthening and streamlining plans;

Assure that agency plans are consistent with the Public Sector Institutional Strengthening and
Streamlining Agenda and recommend approval of the same to the President;

(e) Formulate and submit to the President, as basis for the re-engineering of the bureaucracy, an
Integrated Administrative Reform Plan that will contain specific reforms, such as proposed
shifts in the missions, functions, structures, systems and operations of agencies, including
reforms in staffing and compensation policies, human resources development strategies, and
incentives and rewards systems in the public sector;

(f) Formulate and administer the necessary guidelines, rules and procedures to ensure the
implementation of this Executive Order; and

(g) Call on any department, agency or instrumentality of the government, and request assistance
from private sector groups, as may be deemed necessary to accomplish this directive.

The Department of Budget and Management shall provide technical and administrative support
to the Committee.

SEC. 3. SUB-COMMITTEES UNDER THE PCEG. The PCEG shall be assisted by sub-
committees, which shall be responsible for the study of certain areas, as follows:

(a) Sub-Committee on Service Delivery
Key Study Areas

• Shared government-private sector responsibilities in development

• Alternative modes and systems of public services delivery

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• Corporatization/Privatization

• Decentralization/Devolution

• Government-Client interface systems

Sub-Committee on Organizational Development and Staffing
Key Study Areas

• Strategic positioning of the bureaucracy

• Structural changes and organizational design

• Manning and job design

• Organizational productivity improvement

• Organizational performance evaluation

• Budgeting

• Accounting

• Auditing

• Cash management

• Revenue generation/cost recovery

• Procurement system

(d) Sub-Committee on Personnel and Change Management
Key Study Areas

• Compensation

• Career development

• Career executive system

• Personnel productivity

• Capability building

• Individual performance appraisal

• Advocacy for reforms

• Impact mitigation

(e) Sub-Committee on Information Technology
Key Study Areas

• Acquisition and use of IT resources

• Development and implementation of IT projects

The members of the Sub-Committees that will come from the government, private sector, local
government leagues, academe, and public employees’ unions/associations shall be determined by the
PCEG.

The Sub-Committees shall, in relation to their respective areas of concern, assist in the review
of existing policies, structure, operations and programs; identify counter-productive, unresponsive
and irrelevant systems and practices, recommend reforms to the PCEG; assist the PCEG in crafting
the Public Sector Institutional Strengthening and Streamlining Agenda and Integrated Administrative
Reform Plan; and provide technical assistance to agencies in the design of agency plans.

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SEC. 4. PUBLIC SECTOR INSTITUTIONAL STRENGTHENING AND STREAMLINING
AGENDA. The PCEG shall, within ninety (90) days after the approval of this Executive Order, submit
to the President a Public Sector Institutional Strengthening and Streamlining Agenda embodying the
following components:

• Statement of objective and policies of the program

• Framework of the macro, sectoral and department/agency institutional strengthening and
streamlining

• Evolving nature and extent of government intervention in the sectors

• Strategies for program implementation

• Roles of the various players involved and expected outputs

• Phasing of activities and timeframe

• Guidelines for institutional strengthening and streamlining of departments/agencies

The Agenda shall be used to guide agencies in the formulation of their respective plans and serve
as basis for the PCEG’s review of such plans.

SEC. 5. REWARDS SYSTEM. The PCEG shall formulate a mechanism to reward agencies that
will submit and implement an Institutional Strengthening and Streamlining Plan.

SEC. 6. BUDGET FOR THE PCEG. An amount of Two Million Pesos (P2, 000, 000), chargeable
against the Organizational Adjustment Fund is hereby authorized to fund the initial operations of the
PCEG.

Thereafter, such sums as may be needed in the continued operation of the PCEG and
implementation of the provisions of this Order shall be included in the annual general appropriations
act.

SEC. 7. EFFECTIVITY. This Executive order shall take effect immediately.

Done in the City of Manila, this 19 th day of October, in the Year of our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
and Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

(Sgd.) RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1
Presidential Management Staff.

338]. Manila:

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MALACANANG

MANILA

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 166

FURTHER EXPANDING THE DELINEATED LEGAZPI PORT ZONE AS PROVIDED FOR
UNDER EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 347, DATED JUNE 18, 1996

I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in
me by law, do hereby order:

SECTION 1. The territorial jurisdiction of the Port of Legazpi is hereby further expanded and
delineated as follows:

“Beginning at point marked 1 on the plan at a distance of 398.46m with bearing S 44°56’
E from BLLM No. 1, CAD 47, Albay Cadastre, thence to point 2 at a distance of 179.68m with
bearing N 82°12’ E, thence to point 3 at a distance of 372.05m with bearing N 22°23’ W, thence
to point 4 at a distance of 425.04m with bearing N 10°51’ W, thence to point 5 at a distance of
299.60m with bearing N 02°17’ E, thence to point 6 at a distance of 332.50m with bearing N
17°36’ E, thence to point 7 at a distance of 950.00m with bearing DUE EAST, thence to point 8
at a distance of 1,600.40m with bearing DUE SOUTH, thence to point 9 at a distance of 452.96m
bearing with DUE WEST, thence to point 10 at a distance of 343.99m with bearing S 62°34’ W,
thence to point 11 at a distance of 177.50m with bearing N 62°42’ W, thence to point 12 at
a distance of 165.88m with bearing N 35°42’ W, thence to point 13 at a distance of 134.72m
with bearing N 06°57’ W, thence to point 1, the point of beginning at a distance of 12.45m with
bearing N 56°14’ E, all in all comprising a total area of 1,642,062.00 sq. m. more or less.”

SEC. 2. The Legazpi Port Zone, as expanded and delineated, is hereby placed under the
administrative jurisdiction of the Philippine Ports Authority, which shall, consistent with the
regional industrial plans of the Government, implement a program for the proper zoning, planning,
development and utilization of the port areas in the said Port Zone.

SEC. 3. Executive Order No. 347 dated June 18, 1996, and all other orders, proclamations and
issuances or portions thereof which are inconsistent with this Executive Order are hereby revoked or
modified accordingly.

SEC. 4. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

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DONE in the City of Manila, this 19 th day of October, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [ Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

434

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 167

ESTABLISHING THE COORDINATING CENTERS OF THE NATIONAL ANTI-POVERTY
COMMISSION AT THE BARANGAY LEVEL

WHEREAS, the Social Reform and Poverty Alleviation Act, created the National Anti-Poverty
Commission (NAPC) as a coordinating and policy oversight body(R.A. 8425);

WHEREAS, the law further provided that the NAPC monitor the implementation of the poverty
eradication programs of the government, particularly those concerning the development of micro-
enterprises, micro-finance technology and enhancing the capability of the poor to uplift their own
conditions, their support organizations and the local government units;

WHEREAS, the government’s main thrust is to eradicate poverty by providing support services to
the poor and the institutions that assist them;

WHEREAS, the poor need national government support to overcome the obstacles of poverty
with respect to enterprise development;

WHEREAS, the national government, through the NAPC, must establish the necessary
coordinating centers for the poverty eradication program immediately, to provide the poor the
necessary linkage with market information and modern scientific technology;

WHEREAS, the national government through the NAPC, must be able to exercise its policy
oversight duty by utilizing the latest available communication and information technology in order to
keep the poverty eradication program on track towards the reduction of poverty incidence, especially
in the rural areas;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Republic of the
Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby order the establishment of the
NAPC Coordinating Centers.

Section 1. NAPC Coordinating Centers . The centers shall be established in all barangays. Each
center will provide the following services to the barangay:

a) one stop shop for accessing information about the poverty eradication program, particularly
the projects brought under the NAPC;

b) monitoring of the status of implementation of the poverty eradication program;

c) learning materials for pre-grade school children of the poor;

d) basic health information for child survival and primary health care;

e) information on the sectoral agenda of the 14 basic sectors.

The NAPC, through the Office of the President, shall have the power to lease, acquire, purchase
equipment or contract the services required in the establishment of coordinating centers for the
effective coordination and monitoring of the poverty eradication program in the designated barangays.

Section 2. OPERATIONS . The centers shall be managed and operated by the NAPC, through the
Office of the President and the Dept, of Education, Culture and Sports (DECS) as lead agencies. At the

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barangay level, the center shall be located at the public elementary school and managed by the school
principal or such other designated public school official assigned in the area.

Section 3. FUND ALLOCATIONS . The earnings of the PDTF intended for the development and
conduct of training programs shall cover the MOOE of the centers; provided that the President may
allocate additional funds for the infrastructure needed to operationalize the centers.

Section 4. EFFECTIVITY . This Order shall take effect immediately. All issuances, orders, rules
and regulations not in accordance herewith are deemed revised, amended or revoked accordingly.

Done in the City of Manila, this 19 th day of October, in the Year of Our Lord, Nineteen Hundred
Ninety-Nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). / Executive Order Nos.: 1
Presidential Management Staff.

338]. Manila:

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MALACANANG

MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 168

MODIFYING THE RATES OF DUTY ON CERTAIN IMPORTED ARTICLES AS PROVIDED
UNDER THE TARIFF AND CUSTOMS CODE OF 1978, AS AMENDED, IN ORDER
TO IMPLEMENT THE PREFERENTIAL TARIFF RATES ON CERTAIN PRODUCTS
UNDER THE ASEAN INDUSTRIAL COOPERATION (AICO) SCHEME

WHEREAS, the Philippines is a Contracting Party to the Basic Agreement on the AICO Scheme
signed in Singapore on 27 April 1996;

WHEREAS, the AICO Scheme seeks to improve the competitive position of ASEAN Companies
in the global and ASEAN markets by providing the means to apply the principles of economies of scale
and scope in the manufacturing process, supported by preferential import duties to enhance across
ASEAN border transactions;

WHEREAS, the Philippines is a participating country in the approved AICO Scheme of Isuzu
Philippines Corporation, along with Thailand;

WHEREAS, under the Isuzu AICO Agreement, it was agreed that the Philippines (Isuzu
Philippines Corporation) will import diesel engine from Thailand (Isuzu Engine Manufacturing Co.,
Ltd.) as intermediate part for the original equipment manufacture (OEM) of TBR 54 Series public
transport-type passenger motor vehicle. In exchange, Thailand (Isuzu Motors Co., Ltd.) will import
transmission from the Philippines (Isuzu Autoparts Manufacturing Corporation) for the OEM of TFR
54 and TFS 55 Series;

WHEREAS, in consonance with Articles 5 and 7 of the Basic Agreement on the AICO Scheme,
participating companies in the approved Isuzu Arrangement shall qualify for 0-5% preferential tariff
rate to be extended by the Philippines and Thailand as participating countries, effective within 60 days
from the date of issuance of the Certificate of Eligibility by the ASEAN Secretariat;

WHEREAS, AICO Certificate of Eligibility No. Isuzu/1 999/1 was issued on 24 February 1999 in
favor of the participating companies in the Isuzu AICO Arrangement.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA, President of the Philippines, pursuant to
the powers vested in me under Section 402 of the Tariff and Customs Code of 1978, as amended, do
hereby order:

SECTION 1. The article specifically listed in Annex “A” hereof, as classified under Section 104 of
the Tariff and Customs Code of 1978, as amended, shall be accorded the AICO rate of 3% as specified
in Column 6 thereof.

SEC. 2. The AICO rate provided in “Annex A” shall be accorded to the AICO entity in Thailand
(Isuzu Engine Manufacturing Co., [Thailand Ltd.]) effective from 24 February 1999.

SEC. 3. In the event that any subsequent changes are made in the basic (MFN) Philippine rate
of duty on the article listed in Annex “A” to a rate lower than the AICO rate prescribed in Column 6
thereof, such article shall automatically be accorded the corresponding reduced rate of duty. Effective 1
January 2003, the final CEPT rate on the subject article shall apply.

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SEC. 4. Upon the effectivity of this Executive Order, the article specifically listed in the
aforesaid Annex “A” which is entered or withdrawn from warehouses in the Philippines for
consumption shall pay the applicable AICO preferential tariff rate specified under Section 1 hereof,
subject to qualification under the Rules of Origin for the CEPT, as evidenced by the Certificate of
Origin - Form “D”.

SEC. 5. Any revision/s to the part numbers appearing in Column 4 of Annex “A” shall be
communicated immediately to the Bureau of Customs by the Board of Investments within five (5) days
after receipt of the official copy of the revised part numbers from the ASEAN Secretariat.

SEC. 6. This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

Done in the City of Manila, this 18 th day of October, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred
and ninety nine.

(Sgd.) JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

By the President:

RONALDO B. ZAMORA

Executive Secretary

Source: Presidential Management Staff

Office of the President of the Philippines. (1999). [Executive Order Nos.: 1 - 338]. Manila:
Presidential Management Staff.

438

President Joseph Ejercito Estrada gives a local councilman a “high five” for maintaining peace

and order in his community.

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